While most of the media is busy talking about the fights and results of UFC 314, bantamweight champ Merab Dvalishvili is grabbing attention for a different reason. His next big fight is already locked in for UFC 316—and it’s one fans can’t wait for.
This time, Merab will face none other than former champ Sean O’Malley—the very fighter he took the title from at UFC 306. That alone is enough to bring the heat. For Sean, it’s all about revenge. For Merab, it’s about proving he’s still the best.
As hype builds, the 34-year-old champ opened up about the rematch. He didn’t say much, but he did hint that O’Malley wasn’t fully healthy the last time they fought. Some fans think Merab might be throwing a little shade—suggesting Sean wasn’t ready when it mattered most.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Take on the Rematch
After Merab Dvalishvili (19-4 MMA, 12-2 UFC) took the title from Sean O’Malley (18-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) at UFC 306, the two are now preparing for a rematch. The showdown will headline the June 7 card at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
This time, Merab isn’t taking anything lightly. He knows O’Malley is hungry for revenge and ready to prove himself. Even though Merab won by unanimous decision last time, he’s not underestimating his opponent.
Interestingly, Merab didn’t say he would beat O’Malley again. Instead, he reflected on how O’Malley blamed his injury for the loss last time. He just promised to stay focused and work hard, like he always does.
“He’s hungry now. He’s different man,” Merab said. “He’s gonna be 70% better. He was complaining he was injured. Let’s see, let’s find out. I gotta make sure I keep up same hard work, and I know he wants to get it back, belt, and he hits hard. It’s gonna be tough challenge.”
Merab ended by saying he’s not treating this fight as a walk in the park. He told fans to be ready for a real battle on June 7.
What to Expect from Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 316
Merab Dvalishvili has been on an unstoppable streak since 2018. After his loss to Ricky Simón at UFC Fight Night 128, he bounced back with an amazing 12-fight win streak. Along the way, he defeated top fighters like José Aldo, Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo, and Sean O’Malley.
Now, with seven years of undefeated success, Dvalishvili has become one of the most feared fighters in the bantamweight division. Fans can expect “The Machine” to bring his usual intensity to UFC 316 as well.
Merab Dvalishvili not only injured his leg before this fight but also broke his back, leaving him unable to get out of bed.
No excuses from his side that’s what a true champion does. 🇬🇪🏆 pic.twitter.com/rEvfZXIxGj
— Kartveli (@misterbarca777) January 19, 2025
Many will place their bets on him. And while winning helps keep those bets safe, for Merab, it’s not just about money. It’s about pride, legacy, and respect.
Losing to Sean O’Malley in June would be more than just a defeat—it would be a blow to everything he has built. It could skyrocket Sean’s fame and dim Merab’s shine. That’s not something he’s ready to let happen.
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