The UFC returns to Newark this weekend with two championship belts on the line. Merab Dvalishvili will make his second title defence in a highly anticipated rematch against superstar Sean O’Malley in the main event. In the co-main event, Julianna Peña defends her bantamweight title against former PFL standout Kayla Harrison. With a card stacked from top to bottom, fans are in for a spectacular night of fights. However, one matchup, in particular, stands out: the arrival of a potential future champion at UFC 316.
The UFC has recently made several high-profile signings, bolstering its already dominant presence in the MMA world. Patricio Pitbull, Kayla Harrison, and Kai Asakura are just a few of the elite fighters who have made the switch in recent years. This weekend, another standout joins the roster.
Patchy Mix has long been regarded as one of the best fighters outside the UFC, with fans frequently speculating about how he would fare against the promotion’s elite. Following the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator, rumours circulated that Mix might leave the organisation if the right opportunity arose. That opportunity has finally arrived, and Mix is set to make his UFC debut this Saturday against the #10-ranked Mario Bautista.
(#10) Mario Bautista vs. Patchy Mix
This bout comes as a late change for Bautista, who was originally scheduled to face Chito Vera. However, Vera was forced to withdraw due to injury, and Mix stepped in on four weeks’ notice. On paper, this is a tough matchup for both fighters. Bautista is riding a seven-fight win streak in the bantamweight division, with notable victories over Jose Aldo and Ricky Simon. His relentless wrestling and clinch-heavy style make him a difficult puzzle for even the most seasoned opponents.
Bautista’s recent win over Aldo drew criticism, with some believing the judges got it wrong, accusing him of stalling rather than delivering meaningful offence. That criticism likely hasn’t gone unnoticed, and Bautista will be eager to silence doubters with a definitive performance this weekend.
But finishing Patchy Mix is no easy feat. In 21 professional bouts, he has lost just once—and only by decision. Mix has beaten some of the top names outside the UFC, including Sergio Pettis, Magomed Magomedov, and Raufeon Stots. With a complete MMA arsenal and few weaknesses, Mix is a nightmare matchup for anyone. The biggest question surrounding him is the layoff—he hasn’t competed since May 2024. Will ring rust affect his ability to start fast, something he typically excels at? We’ll find out soon enough.
Official Prediction: Patchy Mix by Submission
This matchup plays directly into Mix’s strengths. Bautista thrives on pressuring opponents against the cage and grinding them down, but Mix’s elite grappling and wrestling could turn that strategy into a liability. With 13 of his 20 professional wins coming by submission, Mix is a proven finisher on the ground. If Bautista chooses to engage in grappling exchanges, he may be walking straight into Mix’s wheelhouse.
I expect Mix to announce his UFC arrival with a statement finish and immediately shake up the bantamweight division. A new contender has arrived—and the top five should be on high alert.
This fight presents a massive opportunity for both competitors. A statement win for either man could catapult them into the title picture. Who will seize the moment? We’ll find out at UFC 316. One thing’s for certain: this card promises action from start to finish. Don’t miss it.
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