UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili is set to face Sean O’Malley in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 316, scheduled for June 7, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. This matchup marks the second meeting between the two fighters in less than a year, as they previously clashed at UFC 306, where Dvalishvili claimed the title from O’Malley via unanimous decision.
UFC CEO Dana White made the announcement during an Instagram Live session on April 1, 2025, confirming that the full fight card for UFC 316 will be finalized in the coming weeks. This event promises to be a significant one for both fighters, as they each have much to prove in their respective careers.
Dvalishvili (19-4) is riding a remarkable 12-fight win streak, showcasing his dominance in the bantamweight division. He last defended his title against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 in January 2025, winning by unanimous decision after a hard-fought battle. Dvalishvili displayed his superior cardio and relentless pace, turning the tide in the later rounds to secure the victory.
In their first encounter at UFC 306, Dvalishvili utilized his grappling skills to control O’Malley, earning a unanimous decision that not only dethroned the then-champion but also cost the UFC a staggering $16 million in production costs. O’Malley (18-2), who previously knocked out Aljamain Sterling to win the title and defended it against Marlon Vera at UFC 299, has not fought since that loss. He underwent hip surgery shortly after the fight and is eager to reclaim his title.
O’Malley expressed his desire for revenge against Dvalishvili, citing the need to prove himself after what he deemed a controversial decision. "I thought I won the fight," O’Malley claimed in a recent interview. "It was a tough loss, but I’ve worked hard to come back stronger. This rematch is my chance to show that I belong at the top of the division again."
Alongside the main event, UFC 316 will feature a co-main event that fans have been eagerly awaiting. Julianna Peña (11-5) will defend her women’s bantamweight title against former PFL champion Kayla Harrison (18-1). Peña regained her championship in October 2024 at UFC 307 by defeating Raquel Pennington in a split decision, marking her return to the top after losing the title previously.
Harrison has made a significant impact since joining the UFC, boasting an undefeated record of 2-0 with victories over notable opponents like Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira. Her impressive performance in the octagon has solidified her status as a top contender, and she is looking to dethrone Peña in what promises to be an explosive matchup.
The rivalry between Peña and Harrison adds an extra layer of intrigue to the co-main event. Peña has accused Harrison of doping throughout her career, fueling the fire for their upcoming bout. The animosity between the two fighters is palpable, and fans are eager to see how it unfolds in the octagon.
UFC 316 is particularly noteworthy as it marks the promotion's quick return to Newark, following a successful event last June that featured Islam Makhachev versus Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. The Prudential Center is becoming a familiar venue for UFC events, and the excitement is already building for what promises to be a thrilling night of fights.
As the fight card continues to take shape, fans can expect more announcements in the coming weeks. The stakes are high for both Dvalishvili and O’Malley, as they look to cement their legacies in the sport. With a title on the line and the weight of their previous encounter hanging in the balance, UFC 316 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events of the year.
In addition to the main and co-main events, the UFC has a packed schedule leading up to UFC 316, with several fight nights and events scheduled across different locations. The promotion is keen on keeping the momentum going as it heads into the summer months, and fans are eagerly awaiting each announcement.
With Dvalishvili’s grappling prowess against O’Malley’s striking skills, and Peña’s determination to defend her title against Harrison’s relentless pursuit of victory, UFC 316 promises to deliver an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action. As the date approaches, anticipation will only grow, with fans from around the globe tuning in to witness the next chapter in these fighters’ careers.
