UFC 316 Preview: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 — Redemption or Repeat ?

The wait is over. One of the most anticipated rematches in recent UFC history is finally here. On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey will host a showdown that could redefine the UFC bantamweight division.

Merab Dvalishvili returns to defend his title against the man he dethroned, “Sugar” Sean O’Malley, in the main event of UFC 316. The stakes? Legacy, redemption, and the undisputed crown of the 135-pound division.

📊 The Story So Far

In their first bout at UFC 306, Dvalishvili put on a clinic—using relentless pressure, chain wrestling, and incredible cardio to completely nullify O’Malley’s dynamic striking. The result was a clear unanimous decision and a new champion at bantamweight.

Now, with several months to prepare, O’Malley is back with a vengeance. The former champ has revamped his training camp, focusing on takedown defense and counters—hoping to recapture the belt and prove the loss was just a bump in the road.

🧠 Fighter Breakdown

Merab Dvalishvili

🔺 Record: Riding a 12-fight win streak
🔺 Style: Pressure-heavy grappling, elite wrestling, and bottomless cardio
🔺 Strength: Can overwhelm opponents with volume and cage control
🔺 Keys to Win: Stick to the blueprint—close the distance, smother O’Malley, dominate on the mat

Sean O’Malley

🎯 Record: Former champion, known for highlight-reel KOs
🎯 Style: Precision striking, creative footwork, deadly accuracy
🎯 Strength: Can end the fight in a flash with a well-timed shot
🎯 Keys to Win: Control range, punish Merab’s entries, stay off the cage

🥊 Co-Main Spotlight: Peña vs. Harrison

As if the main event wasn’t enough, Julianna Peña defends her women’s bantamweight title against the highly decorated Kayla Harrison, making her UFC debut. Harrison’s Olympic judo pedigree and PFL dominance make her one of the most intriguing signings in years. Can Peña weather the storm and retain her title?

🕙 Full UFC 316 Schedule (ET)

Early Prelims – 6:30 PM on ESPN+
Prelims – 8:00 PM on ESPN & ESPN+
Main Card – 10:00 PM on ESPN+ PPV

🔮 Final Thoughts

UFC 316 is more than just a fight card—it’s a defining moment. For O’Malley, it’s a chance to reclaim glory. For Dvalishvili, it’s about solidifying his championship reign. And for the fans? It’s going to be war.