Merab Dvalishvili Insists Sean O’Malley Deserves Rematch Ahead of UFC 316
In a recent interview on "The Ariel Helwani Show", Merab Dvalishvili, the bantamweight champion, expressed his thoughts on the upcoming rematch against Sean O’Malley at UFC 316 on June 7 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. According to the MMA Junkie news site, Dvalishvili (19-4 MMA, 12-2 UFC) stated that despite facing backlash, he believes O’Malley (18-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is worthy of a rematch.
The two fighters previously faced off at UFC 306, where Dvalishvili emerged victorious with a unanimous decision win. However, Dvalishvili has since defended his title against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 in January, and now he’s set to run things back with O’Malley. As reported by MMA Junkie, Dvalishvili took issue with Nurmagomedov getting a title shot, but has a different outlook on O’Malley.
"Even though a lot of people criticize O’Malley getting the rematch, I think he deserves it," Dvalishvili said. "I want to find out, too. He made lots of excuses after the fight. Now he did surgery, and I know he will make adjustments, and he will change the game plan." As quoted in the MMA Junkie article, Dvalishvili also mentioned that he’s expecting a different fight this time around.
The build-up to their second encounter has been markedly different from their first, with the pair being cordial and even taking pictures together at the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas. Dvalishvili joked that he prefers the trash-talking version of O’Malley but can’t help but like him. In an interview, Dvalishvili recalled his recent jacuzzi session with O’Malley at the UFC PI, saying, "That was so cool. All positive. I always liked the guy. I don’t follow many 135’ers on Instagram, and I follow him. He’s funny, he’s cute, and he’s a good fighter too."
Dvalishvili also addressed O’Malley’s past comments about his friend Aljamain Sterling, saying, "I only have positive feelings other than him talking stupid about my friend Aljamain Sterling. I feel bad for this guy. I stole his jacket, I stole his belt, I stole his fans. I made him humble. He’s definitely a different guy now." As reported by MMA Junkie, the bantamweight champion seems to be looking forward to their upcoming bout.
For more information on the UFC 316 card, fans can visit the MMA Junkie event hub. Additionally, fans can discuss this and more content with fellow mixed martial arts enthusiasts on the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel. According to MMA Junkie, the highly anticipated rematch between Dvalishvili and O’Malley is set to be a thrilling encounter.
The rematch is expected to be an exciting fight, with both fighters looking to make adjustments and come out on top. With Dvalishvili’s title defense against Nurmagomedov and O’Malley’s surgery and training, this bout has the potential to be a closely contested matchup. As noted by MMA Junkie, fans will have to wait until June 7 to see which fighter emerges victorious.
In related news, UFC 316 is shaping up to be an exciting event, with several high-profile bouts lined up. As reported by MMA Junkie, fans can expect a thrilling night of mixed martial arts action when the event takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 is set to be a must-watch event for fans of the sport. With Dvalishvili looking to defend his title and O’Malley seeking revenge, this bout has all the makings of a classic encounter. According to MMA Junkie, the highly anticipated rematch is sure to be a highlight of the year.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen which fighter will emerge victorious when Dvalishvili and O’Malley face off at UFC 316. As noted by MMA Junkie, fans will have to tune in on June 7 to find out. With both fighters looking to make a statement, this bout is sure to be an exciting and closely contested matchup.
The bantamweight division has been heating up in recent months, with several high-profile bouts lined up. As reported by MMA Junkie, Dvalishvili’s title defense against O’Malley is set to be a highlight of the year.
In conclusion, the upcoming rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley at UFC 316 is shaping up to be an exciting encounter. According to MMA Junkie, fans can expect a thrilling night of mixed martial arts action when the event takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. With both fighters looking to make a statement, this bout is sure to be a must-watch event for fans of the sport.
