Here are the highlights from the Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 bout at UFC 316.
The main event rematch took place on June 7th at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., featuring Merab Dvalishvili (19-4) and Sean O’Malley (18-3, 1 no-contest). The fight was broadcast live on pay-per-view.
Round 1
Jason Herzog served as the referee for the main event.
O’Malley immediately took the center of the octagon, with Dvalishvili applying pressure. O’Malley landed quick body shots and jabs. Dvalishvili responded with left hands, advancing to cut off the cage. O`Malley landed a good front kick to the body.
Dvalishvili secured a takedown following a right hand and landed a few punches before O’Malley got back to his feet, though Dvalishvili remained attached. O’Malley broke free but slipped after a wild knee attempt. Dvalishvili landed a punch and attempted another takedown as O’Malley circled away. Despite O’Malley’s great balance and defense, Dvalishvili was relentless, securing a second takedown.
From top position, Dvalishvili delivered ground-and-pound. O’Malley used his legs to tie him up, but Dvalishvili continued his pressure. O’Malley managed to stand by the end of the round, but Dvalishvili clearly controlled the action.
Round Score: 10-9, Dvalishvili.
Round 2
Dvalishvili started Round 2 circling the octagon, showing no signs of slowing down. He moved forward, absorbing a body punch but countering with a combo up high. O’Malley landed a right hand in return.
Dvalishvili landed a glancing left and maintained close distance. O’Malley landed a counter strike as Dvalishvili rushed in for a takedown, successfully defending and keeping the fight standing. O’Malley landed body shots while they jockeyed for position.
Another takedown attempt by Dvalishvili was blocked. Dvalishvili landed a right hand as O’Malley circled, then rushed in again, landing another right and attempting a takedown. O’Malley displayed excellent defense against Dvalishvili’s persistent attempts from various angles. O’Malley landed a right, followed by a wild exchange where both fighters missed.
This round was very close and could have been scored for either fighter.
Round Score: 10-9, O’Malley. Overall Score: 19-19.
Round 3
Dvalishvili went for an early takedown attempt but was met with a counter punch. He tried again and successfully dumped O’Malley to the mat with undeniable force.
O’Malley was active from the bottom, but Dvalishvili’s control was overwhelming, preventing O’Malley from standing up or launching effective offense. The crowd grew restless as O’Malley remained trapped.
With less than two minutes remaining, O’Malley fought to stand, but Dvalishvili stayed locked onto him. Dvalishvili executed a trip, twisting his hips, and O’Malley went down again. O’Malley desperately tried to get back up, but Dvalishvili kept him grounded.
Dvalishvili then transitioned to a choke attempt, squeezing O’Malley from a difficult angle. The pressure was too much, and O’Malley was forced to tap out.
Merab Dvalishvili defeats Sean O’Malley via submission and remains the champion.
Marcus Blakely