Dvalishvili vs O’Malley: It looks like the UFC might be gearing up for a high-stakes bantamweight rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley. Despite other contenders in the division, Dana White has suggested that this could be the fight to make—simply because the fighters want it, and so do the fans.
Dvalishvili vs O’Malley: Why a Rematch?
Dvalishvili dethroned O’Malley at UFC 306 last September, dominating him over five rounds to claim the UFC bantamweight title. Since then, O’Malley has been on the sidelines recovering from hip surgery, while Dvalishvili successfully defended his belt against Umar Nurmagomedov.
Despite O’Malley’s one-sided loss, White seems interested in running it back. During the UFC Seattle post-fight press conference, he was asked if O’Malley was next for Dvalishvili, and his response was clear:
Is O’Malley Ready?
O’Malley remains one of the UFC’s biggest stars, and that kind of name power often fast-tracks fighters to title shots. While he hasn’t fought since losing to Dvalishvili, he’s been in training mode, staying off social media and reportedly working on his weaknesses.
The big question is: Has he improved enough to overcome Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure? Their first fight was far from competitive, with the Georgian smothering O’Malley from start to finish.
Does the Fight Make Sense?
While fans are split on the idea, the UFC often prioritizes big-money fights over rankings and fresh matchups. O’Malley’s popularity means he’ll always be a draw, and if he wants a second shot, the UFC might just grant it.
At the same time, fighters like Cory Sandhagen, Henry Cejudo, and even Petr Yan could argue they deserve a shot at Dvalishvili before O’Malley does.
Will O’Malley Get His Redemption?
If the rematch happens, it could be O’Malley’s last chance to reclaim the belt. A second loss to Dvalishvili would all but shut the door on his title aspirations—at least for the foreseeable future.
The UFC has yet to make anything official, but if White’s words are any indication, Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2 might just be around the corner.
