Merab Dvalishvili Vows to Take Risks in UFC 316 Rematch Against Sean O’Malley
In a bold move, reigning UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has vowed to "take some risks" in his upcoming rematch against Sean O’Malley at UFC 316 on June 7 in Newark. The bout is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with Dvalishvili looking to prove that he is more than just a wrestler.
According to reports from MMA Mania, Dvalishvili, who captured the bantamweight crown with a shutout win over O’Malley at UFC 306 last fall, plans to show a more aggressive side in their rematch. The Georgian fighter has a reputation for his grappling skills, with 12 of his 14 UFC fights going to a decision.
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Dvalishvili revealed that he is willing to take risks and show off his striking skills in the upcoming bout. "Our fans deserve some good fights, some super fights, some risky fights, when time comes I will take some good fights, some good, exciting fights," he said. "I think how I’m gonna fight against Sean O’Malley, I’m gonna take some risks and I’m gonna show my striking, too. That’s what I’m thinking right now. Let’s see in the fight, maybe it’s gonna be different, but that’s what I’m thinking right now. You guys know, sometimes I’m a little crazy. So in some fights I’m gonna show my craziness too."
As noted by MMA Mania, Dvalishvili’s willingness to take risks is a bold move, considering that his grappling-heavy style has been both a blessing and a curse. While it has earned him a reputation as a dominant champion, it has also led to criticism that his fights are often too cautious.
Dvalishvili is not the first dominant champion to face criticism for his style. Even the legendary Georges St-Pierre, who reigned supreme over the welterweight division, struggled to finish fights in the second half of his career. As MMA Mania reports, St-Pierre’s struggles to finish fights were often attributed to his cautious approach, which prioritized winning over excitement.
Despite the risks, Dvalishvili’s decision to take a more aggressive approach in his rematch against O’Malley has generated significant interest in the bout. Fans will be eagerly anticipating the fight, which promises to be an exciting and unpredictable encounter.
In conclusion, Merab Dvalishvili’s vow to take risks in his UFC 316 rematch against Sean O’Malley has set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable bout. As reported by MMA Mania, Dvalishvili’s willingness to show off his striking skills and take risks has generated significant interest in the fight, which promises to be a thrilling encounter.