UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs O'Malley II Preview

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UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley

The UFC brings two title fights to New Jersey this weekend, headlined by the highly

anticipated bantamweight rematch between Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili and “Suga” Sean O’Malley. In the co-main event, we finally see the long-awaited title shot for Kayla Harrison, who has been making waves in the UFC since her debut just over a year ago. However, she faces a tough test in Julianna Peña, the reigning queen of the women's bantamweight division. It's a stacked card featuring many fan favorites like Kevin Holland, and even a challenging UFC debut for Patchy Mix. This is a card you can’t miss.

Main Event – Merab Dvalishvili (19-4-0) vs. Sean O’Malley (18-2-0, 1 NC)

Bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili took the belt from Sean O’Malley last September in a close five-round war. Since then, Merab has successfully defended his title, while Sean has kept a low profile, keeping his focus on reclaiming the belt. Merab is known for his relentless cardio and pressure, walking down opponents with a barrage of takedown attempts and strikes. O’Malley, on the other hand, is a slick striker with sharp, precise shots and excellent footwork. He’s also proven to be a strong anti-wrestler. Merab will need to stick to his game plan while keeping his chin tucked and not getting sloppy, whereas Sean will aim to maintain distance, pick his shots, and find that kill shot. Every time these two step into the Octagon, excitement is guaranteed—Saturday night will be no different.

Co-Main Event – Julianna Peña (13-5-0) vs. Kayla Harrison (18-1-0)

In the co-main event, women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Peña faces Olympic judo gold medalist Kayla Harrison. There’s some bad blood between these two heading into the fight. Kayla is a huge presence in the division, and it remains to be seen how the weight cut will affect her performance, especially over five rounds. Julianna will look to bring the fight to Kayla and hunt for the finish. This bout could end at any moment.

Main Card – Kelvin Gastelum (20-9-0, 1 NC) vs. Joe Pyfer (13-3-0)

UFC veteran Kelvin Gastelum takes on Contender Series standout Joe Pyfer. Twelve of Pyfer’s 13 wins have come by finish—he’s dangerous everywhere. But Gastelum has been through the fire and seen it all. Coming off a win over D-Rod, Kelvin enters this fight with confidence and the experience to deal with a rising contender like Pyfer.

Main Card – Mario Bautista (15-2-0) vs. Patchy Mix (20-1-0)

Tenth-ranked Mario Bautista is riding a seven-fight win streak and steadily climbing the rankings. Originally scheduled to face Marlon Vera, Bautista will now take on Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix, who steps in on short notice. Patchy brings an impressive résumé with wins over some of the sport’s top names. He finally makes his UFC debut on Saturday night in what promises to be a high-stakes battle.

Main Card – Vicente Luque (23-10-1) vs. Kevin Holland (27-13-0, 1 NC)

Fan favourite Kevin Holland takes on UFC veteran Vicente Luque to open the main card in this welterweight clash. Holland returns quickly, having just fought three months ago. Both men are always ready for war, and fans can expect fireworks when they collide in the Octagon.