Two Flags, One Fighter: Georgian-Israeli MMA Star Stav Koren Aims for UFC Glory

Be’er Sheva, Israel — With the flags of Israel and Georgia on his shoulders and fire in his eyes, 24-year-old MMA fighter Stav Koren Kokuashvili is on the fast track to UFC stardom. Born in Israel to a Georgian family, Stav represents a unique fusion of cultures — and a powerful presence in the cage.

Recently, in just four minutes, Stav submitted his American opponent, Peter Lucitt, at LFA 196. It was a defining victory — his fifth in a row — and it’s already sparking conversations about a UFC debut.

“I was on his back and never let go,” Stav says with a quiet intensity. “I knew I belonged in that cage.”

A Fighter’s Journey

Stav has been training since the age of 11. At 16, he entered the cage for his first professional bout — a three-round war in front of a roaring Israeli crowd. Since then, he’s fought in the Netherlands, Cyprus, and the United States, racking up five consecutive wins and proving he’s not just talented — he’s relentless.

He holds a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, wrestled his way to third place in the Israeli national championships, and has trained in Muay Thai for over four years.

“Wrestling is one of my strongest points,” he explains. “But I train seriously in everything. I believe that’s what makes a complete fighter.”

Training With Champions

Stav’s recent trip to the U.S. wasn’t just about competition — it was about connections. He trained with fellow Georgian-Israeli UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili, one of the most respected names in the bantamweight division.

“He’s my friend,” Stav says. “We trained together. He won his fight. I won mine. It was a good day.”

Chasing UFC Gold

Stav is clear about where he’s headed: the UFC. And not just to join — to dominate.

“My goal is to become a UFC champion,” he says without hesitation. “I know I belong there. I trust my skills, my mind, and my discipline. Dreams do come true. I’m already halfway there.”

Two Flags, One Identity

Though born in Israel, Stav never forgets his Georgian roots.

“My family speaks Georgian at home. My father is from Georgia. Physically and emotionally, I feel Georgian, I feel Israeli,  I fight under both flags — Israel and Georgia — and I’m proud of that.”

With his undefeated record, growing reputation, and deep cultural identity, Stav Koren isn’t just another MMA fighter. He’s a symbol of resilience, connection, and ambition across two nations.

Author’s Note:

I met Stav Koren at his home in Be’er Sheva with his family, where we talked about life, heritage, and the pressure of stepping into the cage as both a fighter and a symbol. In a world often divided by flags, he wears two on his shoulders — and fights for both. The piece was originally prepared and published in the Spanish-language magazine IBERIA DEL CÁUCASO.