Merab Dvalishvili Dominates Sean O’Malley Again, Cements Reign as UFC Bantamweight King
Merab Dvalishvili is no longer chasing greatness—he’s defining it.
At UFC 316, “The Machine” put a decisive end to his rivalry with Sean O’Malley, submitting the former champion in the third round to retain his UFC bantamweight title.
In front of a roaring Prudential Center crowd, Dvalishvili (18-4 MMA, 11-2 UFC) made it clear: this is his division now.
I want four title defences in 2025. I’m not here to sit on the belt. I’m here to dominate.
A Rematch With No Doubts
Their first encounter at UFC 306 saw Dvalishvili snatch the title from O’Malley via unanimous decision. This time, there was no need for the judges.
From the opening bell, Dvalishvili imposed his trademark pressure. He secured two takedowns in the first round and maintained top control, reminiscent of the six takedowns he landed in their previous fight, but more efficient and punishing this time around.
In Round 2, Dvalishvili showcased his striking improvements, out-landing O’Malley 23 to 19 in significant strikes during the round’s only competitive moments. But it was in Round 3 where he stepped up his game.
Dvalishvili took O’Malley down three more times, smothered him with ground control, and with just 18 seconds left in the round, locked in a north-south choke to force the tap.
Bantamweight Division Belongs to Merab
Dvalishvili isn’t just defending his belt—he’s cleaning out the top of the division.
He’s already defeated former champions Sean O’Malley, Petr Yan, and rising star Umar Nurmagomedov (at UFC 311). With Cory Sandhagen likely next in line, and in attendance at UFC 316, Merab made it clear he’s not slowing down. “I want to fight everyone. I want to be the best bantamweight of all time,” Merab said during the presser.
With UFC 316 in the books, the 135-pound division has a clear face: Merab Dvalishvili. At this rate, there's a good chance the Georgian champion will be the king of the division long enough to be considered the bantamweight GOAT.