MMA
UFC 316 Preview: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley rematch headlines huge night
UFC 316 is set to deliver fireworks this weekend, with a stacked card headlined by a highly anticipated rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley for the bantamweight title.
The event takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, with the undercard kicking off late on Saturday, June 7, and the main event expected around 05:00 AM on Sunday, June 8 (UK time).
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Main Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley
The headline fight sees bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili – who’s currently on a 12-fight win streak – challenge reigning champion Sean “Suga” O’Malley in a rematch filled with drama and high stakes.
These two last met at UFC 306, where Dvalishvili put on a dominant display, winning by unanimous decision. O’Malley had fought with a labral tear but pushed through camp to take the fight. Now fully fit, he’s looking to even the score.
Despite being a fan favourite, O’Malley enters the fight as the 21/10 outsider, while Dvalishvili is the 4/11 favourite. The fight is expected to go the distance, with “Either Fighter by Decision” priced at 2/5. If you’re backing history to repeat itself, Dvalishvili to win by unanimous decision is available at 8/13.
O’Malley’s strength lies in his sharp, technical striking, while Dvalishvili thrives on relentless pressure and high-volume grappling. To win the rematch, O’Malley will need to keep the fight at range and use his striking to control the tempo. If he lands early and prevents Dvalishvili from closing the distance, momentum could swing his way.
But if Dvalishvili succeeds in dragging the fight into grappling exchanges, it could be a difficult night for O’Malley. Should the fight stay in O’Malley’s comfort zone, a finish is possible, with a win by KO/TKO/DQ or Submission priced at 3/1.
Co-Main Event: Julianna Peña vs. Kayla Harrison
The co-main event features another title bout, as reigning bantamweight champion Julianna Peña puts her belt on the line against Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medallist. Harrison made her UFC debut last April at the historic UFC 300 event, submitting former champion Holly Holm in the second round.
Peña famously shocked the world when she beat Amanda Nunes, but she’s facing an even steeper challenge here. Harrison is the heavy 1/6 favourite, while Peña is a 4/1 underdog, despite being the current champion.
Many expect Harrison’s elite grappling to be too much, and a win for Harrison by KO, TKO, DQ, or Submission is priced at 4/6.
Rest of the Card
Aside from the two headline title fights, UFC 316’s main card features several exciting matchups that are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
In the welterweight division, Kevin Holland (4/11) takes on Vicente Luque (21/10) in what promises to be a fast-paced and unpredictable battle.
In a bantamweight clash, Patchy Mix is the 8/15 favourite against Mario Bautista (6/4) in a fight between two highly skilled, well-rounded athletes. Expect plenty of scrambles and technical exchanges.
Also on the card is a middleweight showdown between rising contender Joe Pyfer (2/7) and seasoned veteran Kelvin Gastelum (13/5). Pyfer is heavily favoured, but Gastelum’s experience and toughness make him a dangerous underdog.
