DOMINANT: Merab Dvalishvili Crushes Sean O’Malley in Faster Rematch Win

The UFC bantamweight division just witnessed another masterclass, and it came at the expense of one of the sport’s most marketable stars. Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili lived up to his nickname Saturday night, dismantling Sean O’Malley even quicker than their first encounter to retain his 135-pound crown.

If you thought their first fight was one-sided, this rematch was essentially highlight-reel material for Dvalishvili’s resume.

The Georgian Nightmare Returns

Let me paint you the picture: O’Malley entered the octagon with his usual swagger, rainbow hair flowing, confidence radiating. The “Suga Show” promised adjustments and revenge. What he got instead was an even more efficient beatdown.

Dvalishvili didn’t just beat O’Malley again – he accelerated the timeline, finishing the fight faster than their first encounter. The Machine’s relentless pressure, elite wrestling, and improved striking proved once again that style makes fights, and O’Malley simply has no answer for Merab’s approach.

Insert image of Dvalishvili’s victory celebration here

By The Numbers: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2

How Dvalishvili Made It Look Easy

What impressed me most about Dvalishvili’s performance was how he didn’t just rely on his wrestling. The Georgian showed significant improvements in his striking, timing beautiful counters when O’Malley tried to create distance.

From the opening bell, Merab’s game plan was clear: pressure, pressure, pressure. He never allowed O’Malley to establish his preferred range or rhythm. When O’Malley tried to circle away, Dvalishvili cut the cage masterfully. When “Suga” loaded up for his trademark right hand, Merab was already changing levels for a takedown.

It was clinical. It was brutal. It was exactly what Dvalishvili promised in the lead-up.

O’Malley’s Future: Where Does “Suga” Go From Here?

Two losses to the same champion is a tough pill to swallow, especially when both were so decisive. For O’Malley, the path back to title contention just became a long, winding road.

Does he need to completely overhaul his takedown defense? Should he move up to featherweight where his height might be more advantageous? These are the questions “Suga” and his team will need to answer in the coming months.

One thing is certain – O’Malley’s star power remains intact. His personality and fighting style still make him one of UFC’s biggest draws, but his technical limitations against elite wrestlers have now been exposed twice on the biggest stage.

What’s Next for “The Machine”?

With two title defenses now under his belt, Dvalishvili is establishing himself as a potentially long-reigning champion. The division has several intriguing challengers waiting in the wings:

• Umar Nurmagomedov – The undefeated cousin of Khabib remains the most intriguing stylistic matchup
• Cory Sandhagen – Has won three straight and presents unique striking challenges
• Henry Cejudo – The former two-division champion has been vocal about wanting another title shot

Personally, I’d love to see the Nurmagomedov fight next. Wrestling versus wrestling, with both men bringing unrelenting cardio and pressure. It could be a five-round chess match of the highest caliber.

The Georgian Era of Dominance

What we’re witnessing is potentially the beginning of a long championship reign. Dvalishvili’s cardio seems inexhaustible, his wrestling virtually unstoppable, and now his striking is catching up to make him a true triple threat.

The scary part? At 33, Merab appears to be getting better with each performance. While many fighters start declining at this age, The Machine seems to be finding new gears.

“I’m just getting started,” Dvalishvili said in his post-fight interview. “No one in this division can match my pace, my pressure, my heart.”

After Saturday’s performance, it’s hard to argue with him.

Were You Surprised By How Dominant Merab Was?

I certainly wasn’t expecting such a quick finish. Did you think O’Malley would have better answers this time around? Drop a comment below with your thoughts on the fight and who you want to see Dvalishvili face next!

Until next time, this is your ringside reporter signing off from another unforgettable night of UFC action.

Source: UFC Official Fight Statistics