UFC 316 Predictions Match – Merab Dvalishvili vs Sean O’Malley
UFC 316 promises to be one of the most electrifying events of the year, headlined by a highly anticipated welterweight clash between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena.
This bout not only holds significant title implications but also showcases the stylistic contrast between Muhammad’s relentless pressure and Della Maddalena’s crisp striking and knockout power.
Set inside the Prudential Center in Newark, UFC 316 features a stacked card filled with rising contenders, returning veterans, and pivotal matchups across multiple divisions.
Fans can expect a night of high-stakes drama, tactical brilliance, and potential breakthroughs that will shape the landscape of the UFC for the remainder of 2025.
Event Details for UFC 316
Main Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2
Date: July 7, 2025
Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
Time: Main Card begins at 10:00 PM ET, with Prelims starting at 7:00 PM ET
Broadcast: Live on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View in the United States; available globally via UFC Fight Pass
UFC 316 is set to deliver a blockbuster night of action, highlighted by a bantamweight grudge rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and reigning champion Sean O’Malley. Their first bout ended in controversy, sparking debates over scoring and strategy that have fueled the narrative leading into this pivotal second encounter. With title stakes and personal pride on the line, the rematch is one of the most talked-about showdowns in UFC 316 match predictions.
The Prudential Center in Newark will once again be the stage for top-tier mixed martial arts, drawing in fans from around the world. The event features a full card loaded with ranked fighters and emerging prospects across several divisions, each bringing championship aspirations. The main event, however, centers on whether Dvalishvili can replicate his suffocating wrestling dominance or if O’Malley can adapt, strike back, and silence the doubters. Either way, this high-stakes rematch promises to deliver fireworks and set the tone for the bantamweight division moving forward.
Fighter Profiles and Current Form
| Attribute | Merab Dvalishvili | Sean O’Malley |
| Nationality | Georgia | United States |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 135 lbs (61 kg) | 135 lbs (61 kg) |
| Reach | 68 in (173 cm) | 72 in (183 cm) |
| Stance | Orthodox | Switch |
| Date of Birth | January 10, 1991 | October 24, 1994 |
| Age | 34 | 30 |
| Record | 17–4 | 18–1 (1 NC) |
| Wins by KO | 3 | 12 |
| Wins by Submission | 1 | 1 |
| Current Streak | 10 wins | 6 wins |
| UFC Debut | 2018 | 2017 |
| Fighting Out Of | Long Island, New York, USA | Glendale, Arizona, USA |
Dvalishvili
Known for his relentless pace and top-tier grappling, Merab Dvalishvili thrives on breaking opponents mentally and physically. A cardio machine with a record-breaking takedown pace, he overwhelms strikers and exhausts fellow grapplers. After dispatching multiple top contenders, his momentum is undeniable. Dvalishvili hasn’t lost since 2018 and rides an 11-fight win streak heading into UFC 316 predictions.
O’Malley
Sean O’Malley brings elite striking with creative angles, deceptive timing, and a sharp finishing instinct. The former champion’s last fight exposed weaknesses in takedown defense, but his striking differential and fight IQ remain elite. O’Malley’s slick counters and ability to manage distance make him dangerous for any opponent, especially in five-round affairs. After regrouping from his prior loss, his focus on wrestling defense and strength conditioning is a key development in this rematch.
Headliner Breakdown
Tactical Preview and Outcome Projection
In the rematch between O’Malley vs Dvalishvili 2, the contrast in styles is stark. Dvalishvili’s goal is clear: pressure early, shoot frequently, and chain wrestle to drain O’Malley’s stamina. In their first fight, he secured over 11 takedowns, minimizing O’Malley’s striking rhythm. The challenge is replicating that without absorbing heavy counters.
O’Malley will aim to circle away from Dvalishvili’s entries and punish failed shots with knees and uppercuts. If he establishes his jab early and defends takedowns above 65%, he can flip the narrative. However, Dvalishvili’s suffocating pace may again steal rounds.
Prediction: Dvalishvili via unanimous decision – his grinding style is built for five-round chaos, and his momentum feels unstoppable unless O’Malley lands the perfect shot.
Preliminary Card Forecast
Several confirmed prelim bouts add depth and excitement to the UFC 316 fight card on ESPN/ESPN+/Disney+:
- Johnny Walker vs Azamat Murzakanov – A dynamic light heavyweight showdown where Walker’s unpredictability meets Murzakanov’s compact power and precision.
- Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer – A compelling middleweight clash between a veteran looking to rebound and a surging prospect with knockout potential.
- Ariane da Silva vs Wang Cong – A high-paced women’s flyweight bout featuring Silva’s aggression against Wang’s technical counter-striking.
Expect several breakout performances from these matchups, especially among rising names in the welterweight and middleweight divisions.
Top Betting Markets and Tips
Most Likely Finishes
Most Likely Finishes
UFC 316 presents several potential finish scenarios based on the styles of the fighters involved. The most likely finishes for this event could come from high-impact strikers like Johnny Walker vs. Azamat Murzakanov, where a knockout is very probable given both fighters’ power. Similarly, the Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley fight could see a finish due to the contrasting styles – Dvalishvili’s wrestling versus O’Malley’s striking could lead to a finish, whether by submission or knockout. Keep an eye on these markets for potential value.
Props and Round Betting Value
When placing prop bets, consider the high likelihood of submissions in Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison, as both women possess grappling skills that could lead to a finish via submission. Additionally, round betting markets for fights like Marlon Vera vs. Mario Bautista may offer value, as both fighters are known for their quick strikes and could end in a flurry of action within the early rounds. Pay attention to round betting for these matchups, as rounds 1 and 2 are likely candidates for finishes.
Storylines and Rivalries to Watch
At UFC 316, there are several key storylines that heighten the drama of the event:
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley: The main event has built up significant rivalry due to the contrasting fighting styles. Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure and grappling could clash with O’Malley’s flashy, unorthodox striking. This could be a defining fight for the future of the bantamweight division, and tensions have been growing with each fighter calling out the other in recent months.
- Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison: The rivalry here is fueled by Harrison’s undefeated record and her pursuit of a title, while Pena has already proven her elite status in the women’s bantamweight division. Their fight has narrative potential for a passing of the torch, with Harrison eyeing the title and Pena aiming to defend her legacy.
- Serghei Spivac vs. Shamil Gaziev: The heavyweight division is always filled with drama, and this matchup promises to add to it. Spivac, known as “Polar Bear,” is trying to break into the top tier, while Gaziev is a dangerous up-and-coming fighter aiming to prove himself. The heavyweights’ clash will certainly generate hype and could shift the rankings.
These sections explore betting value and some of the exciting storylines and rivalries surrounding UFC 316, which will add a layer of excitement leading up to the event.
Predicted Outcomes and Upsets
UFC 316 is set to deliver some exciting matchups, and while the favorites are clear, there’s always room for potential upsets. Here are some predictions for surprises:
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley: While O’Malley is the favorite with his impressive striking skills, Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling could catch him off guard. If Dvalishvili can take O’Malley down and dominate on the ground, he may secure an upset victory.
- Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison: While Harrison is an overwhelming favorite due to her undefeated record, Pena’s resilience and ability to pull off upsets should not be underestimated. If she can avoid the clinch and push Harrison into deeper waters, Pena might pull off an unexpected victory, especially in later rounds.
- Johnny Walker vs. Azamat Murzakanov: Murzakanov is a rising prospect with raw power, but Walker’s unpredictable movement and knockout potential make him a dangerous opponent. An upset here could come if Walker capitalizes on Murzakanov’s potential overconfidence and lands a clean knockout.
In the world of UFC, outcomes can be unpredictable, and these matchups offer plenty of potential for upsets to shift the trajectory of fighter rankings and titles.
Post-Fight Impact on UFC Divisions
The outcomes of the UFC 316 bouts are likely to have significant implications on the rankings and future matchups across multiple divisions:
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley: A win for O’Malley could solidify his position as the number one contender in the bantamweight division, potentially setting up a title fight with the current champion. On the other hand, if Dvalishvili pulls off the upset, his wrestling-heavy style could thrust him into title contention, bringing a new dynamic to the division.
- Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison: A victory for Harrison could establish her as the new top challenger for the women’s bantamweight title, potentially setting up a showdown with the champion. For Pena, a win would likely place her back into the title picture, keeping the competition at the top of the division tight.
- Johnny Walker vs. Azamat Murzakanov: A win for Murzakanov could elevate him within the light heavyweight rankings, possibly positioning him for a future contender’s fight. Walker, with his unpredictable fighting style, is always a wildcard, and if he wins, it could put him back on the path to challenging the division’s elite.
- Kelvin Gastelum vs. Joe Pyfer: Gastelum’s win could push him back into the middleweight top 10, while a victory for Pyfer would elevate him into serious contender status. The middleweight division is highly competitive, so a win for either fighter would significantly impact their ranking and future opportunities.
- Serghei Spivac vs. Shamil Gaziev: A victory for Spivac could propel him further up the heavyweight ranks, possibly setting up a bout with other top contenders. Gaziev, if he wins, could shock the heavyweight division and quickly make a name for himself as a top contender, reshaping the landscape of the division.
The outcomes of these high-stakes fights will undoubtedly alter the competitive balance within their respective weight classes and could have a lasting impact on title shots, matchmaking, and the development of future superstars in the UFC.
Other Fights Scheduled for This Event
UFC 316 promises an exciting fight card featuring some of the most anticipated matchups across various weight divisions. While the main event, Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley, and other headline bouts take the spotlight, there are several intriguing undercard fights to look out for:
- Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison: A women’s bantamweight clash that could shape the future of the division. Both fighters are known for their powerful styles, and this fight is crucial for determining the next title challenger.
- Marlon Vera vs. Mario Bautista: This bantamweight showdown is expected to be an exciting encounter, with both fighters known for their aggressive striking and high-paced fight style.
- Bruno Gustavo da Silva vs. Joshua Van: A thrilling flyweight contest that could serve as a proving ground for both fighters in one of the most competitive divisions in the UFC.
- Serghei Spivac vs. Shamil Gaziev: A heavyweight clash that brings explosive potential, with both fighters having the power to finish the fight at any moment. Spivac will look to climb the rankings, while Gaziev will aim to make a splash in his UFC debut.
Preliminary Card (ESPN/ESPN+/Disney+):
- Johnny Walker vs. Azamat Murzakanov: A light heavyweight bout that promises fireworks. Walker’s unpredictable style contrasts with Murzakanov’s disciplined striking approach, making for an exciting matchup.
- Kelvin Gastelum vs. Joe Pyfer: A middleweight fight that could impact the rankings significantly. Gastelum’s experience will be tested against the rising star, Pyfer, who is looking to make a statement.
- Ariane da Silva vs. Wang Cong: A women’s flyweight contest that features two hungry fighters vying for recognition in a stacked division. Expect a tactical battle for dominance in the flyweight ranks.
UFC 316 is set to deliver an action-packed night with high-stakes matchups across the board, ensuring that fans are in for an unforgettable event.
Final Word on UFC 316
UFC 316 offers a high-stakes combination of revenge, rising stars, and championship ramifications. Whether it’s Dvalishvili’s cardio-pressure or O’Malley’s calculated chaos, the main event could redefine the 135-pound division. Smart bettors will track matchups with clear stylistic edges and identify under-the-radar fighters with momentum.
From elite wrestlers to flashy strikers, the UFC 316 fight card is packed with compelling talent. Expect technical brawls, dramatic shifts in rankings, and perhaps a finish that steals the show. For fans and punters alike, this card offers substance and spectacle.
