Merab Dvalishvili didn`t just defeat Sean O`Malley again; he finished him faster than their previous encounter. In the main event of UFC 316, held on Saturday at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, “The Machine” successfully defended his bantamweight championship for the second time and secured his second victory over O`Malley.
While their first meeting at UFC 306 went the distance with Dvalishvili winning a unanimous decision, this rematch proved more decisive. O`Malley showcased noticeably improved takedown defense, yet Dvalishvili`s relentless pressure saw him still secure multiple takedowns, applying ground-and-pound and seeking submissions.
Dvalishvili ultimately broke through O`Malley`s defenses in the third round, securing a choke that forced the tap, making the rivalry`s score 2-0 in his favor.
On social media, reactions from fellow fighters varied. Many lauded Dvalishvili`s performance, suggesting he is the greatest fighter ever to compete in the 135-pound division, while others expressed bewilderment regarding the decision to grant O`Malley an immediate rematch in the first place.
