On June 7, 2025, Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley squared off for the UFC bantamweight title at UFC 316, one of the year’s most anticipated title rematches, at the Prudential Center in Newark.
Dvalishvili had won their first fight by a torturous decision. The plot of this rematch was whether “Suga” Sean O’Malley’s skillful striking would propel him back to the top of the bantamweight division or if the unyielding Georgian wrestler could once more enforce his will.
This is a comprehensive round-by-round analysis of Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2, complete with post-fight commentary on the fight’s implications for the bantamweight division’s future.
Round 1: The Machine Gets Started Quickly
Both fighters had a clear strategy in place when the main event of UFC 316 got underway. With his jab and low kicks, O’Malley attempted to stay in range, but Dvalishvili sought to get closer and take the fight to the mat.
As expected, Dvalishvili put constant pressure on the opening bell. He managed an early takedown, knocking O’Malley to the ground after fainting with strikes. The Georgian champion then wore down the opponent with consistent ground-and-pound and top control.
O’Malley’s grappling defense was better, but he was unable to stand again without taking damage. Dvalishvili demonstrated his chain wrestling skills to the fullest, controlling most of it on the ground as the round came to a close.
Merab Dvalishvili won the first round.
Sean O’Malley’s Striking Reaction in Round Two
O’Malley changed his strategy going into the second round of this UFC bantamweight title bout. He avoided the takedown entries that had cost him Round 1 by using more lateral movement and sharper footwork.
O’Malley started delivering clean straight punches and powerful leg kicks. Dvalishvili’s forward momentum was even momentarily stopped by a well-timed counter right. The challenger controlled the action at range for the majority of the round, forcing Dvalishvili to reset several times.
Even though Dvalishvili continued to try takedowns, O’Malley was able to block most of these attempts in the second frame thanks to his better footwork and takedown defense. This demonstrated that the fight was far from over and gave the challenger a clear round.
Round 3: Dvalishvili Wins by Submission
In the round 3, the fight’s outcome was up for grabs because the score was probably tied going into Round 3 and it would have had a major implication on who won this round.
Dvalishvili quickly established his distinctive look. Pressing forward, he swiftly got another takedown and put O’Malley on the canvas once more. The champion’s ground strategy appeared even more lethal this time.
Dvalishvili made a smooth transition from side control to a dominant north-south position. He then locked it in with flawless technique using a north-south choke. Despite his heroic efforts, O’Malley was forced to tap out at 4:42 in Round 3.
In addition to defending his title for the third time, Dvalishvili achieved his first submission victory in his UFC career with the victory, which demonstrated the growth of his skill set.
Official Results: Round 3, 4:42, Merab Dvalishvili defeats Sean O’Malley by submission (north-south choke).
The Implications of Merab Dvalishvili’s UFC 316 Victory for the Bantamweight Class
Merab Dvalishvili’s victory at UFC 316 was a game-changing performance rather than merely another defense. The Georgian champion, who is best known for his cardio and unrelenting wrestling, demonstrated better jiu-jitsu by cleanly submitting a dangerous striker.
Dvalishvili’s standing as possibly the world’s most formidable bantamweight fighter is further cemented by this triumph. He is still developing inside the Octagon and has already defeated some of the best in the division.
Fans and commentators immediately started making predictions about Dvalishvili’s next move after the fight. Many believe that Cory Sandhagen is a worthy opponent who might present the champion with fresh stylistic challenges. It’s unclear if that matchup will happen, but it’s certain that Dvalishvili is playing at his best.
What Will Happen to Sean O’Malley After His Loss at UFC 316?
Sean O’Malley learned yet again how challenging it is to assert with top wrestlers at the championship level at UFC 316. He made progress in a number of areas, particularly in striking exchanges and initial takedown defense, but in the end, he was unable to hold the fight long enough to win.
O’Malley has now lost to Dvalishvili twice in a row, which probably eliminates him from immediate title contention. He is still among the roster’s most talented and marketable bantamweights, though.
O’Malley will probably have to rebuild going forward by competing against other ranked opponents and concentrating on strengthening his grappling and wrestling defense. He might get back on track with a fight against Marlon “Chito” Vera, or another strong opponent.
Concluding Remarks: UFC 316 Makes a Statement Performance
The main event of UFC 316 lived up to the expectations. It demonstrated the skill of both fighters in their specialties—O’Malley’s technical striking and Dvalishvili’s unrelenting pace and grappling.
However, Dvalishvili’s developing skill set and unwavering perseverance ultimately won him the finish. His performance opened a new chapter in his illustrious career and posed a crucial query for the remaining bantamweight competitors:
Who has the power to stop “The Machine”?
UFC 316 has left the MMA community excited to see what happens next for both fighters, and for the always competitive bantamweight title picture, as fans look back on one of the most memorable fights of the year.
Merab Dvalishvili’s relentless pace, suffocating wrestling, and ever-evolving submission game make him seem nearly unbeatable. Few can match his cardio or prevent his takedowns over five grueling rounds. Merab Dvalishvili’s rise from the rugged training grounds of Georgia to the UFC’s elite ranks has shaped him into one of the most formidable forces at bantamweight.
A lifelong wrestler with a background in sambo and judo, he complements technical skill with tireless work ethic. Inside the cage, he overwhelms opponents with pace, chaining takedowns seamlessly while staying defensively sound. At UFC 316, his submission win over Sean O’Malley revealed a new dimension, proving he’s more than a relentless grappler. As his striking sharpens and his ground game evolves, no one in the division seem capable of halting his momentum.
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