Merab Dvalishvili reveals what’s different entering Sean O’Malley rematch at UFC 316

Merab Dvalishvili doesn’t anticipate his rematch against Sean O’Malley being an exact repeat of their first encounter.

While Dvalishvili anticipates another victory over “Suga,” he has a different feeling going into UFC 316. “The Machine” will put the UFC Bantamweight Championship at stake against O’Malley on June 7 in Newark. In their first meeting back in Sept. 2024, Dvalishvili took the 135-pound gold from O’Malley via unanimous decision.

Going into their rematch, Dvalishvili knows he’ll have to stay sharp if he expects to score another win over “Suga.”

RELATED: JOE ROGAN HAS ONE BIG QUESTION AHEAD OF MERAB DVALISHVILI’S UFC 316 REMATCH WITH SEAN O’MALLEY

Merab Dvalishvili on What’s Different About Rematch

Merab Dvalishvili spoke to reporters following an open workout session. He revealed what’s different going into his rematch against Sean O’Malley (via MMAJunkie).

“Him and his coach studied our fight,” Dvalishvili said. “They know what are my strongest ways, what are my weaknesses. They have a long camp and I’m waiting and I’m accepting the best version of Sean O’Malley. That’s my job to take this fight serious. I should not look down on him because I’m ready to work. Hopefully, I’m going to make it much easier.”

The bantamweight champion also discussed his recent toe injury. Dvalishvili says that while the pinky toe is “fat,” it is no longer black and blue. He feels it won’t be an issue on fight night and he was surprised that fans made a big deal about it.

Furthermore, Dvalishvili anticipates a more competitive fight this go-around.

“It definitely feels different because the first time I was the challenger,” Dvalishvili said. “Now, I’m a champion. This time, he’s the challenger. I already beat him. In the beginning, it was hard to motivate myself to fight the same guy who I dominated. Now, I know he’s going to change a lot of things. He’s already changed his lifestyle and everything. We may see Sean defend my takedowns and we may see we go fight striking. I’m ready for that. It’s going to be a good fight, for sure.

Stick with BJPenn.com for fight week updates leading up to the UFC 316 card. Stick with the homepage on June 7 for live coverage of the event.