Merab Dvalishvili dominated Sean O’Malley with relentless grappling at UFC 306, earning the bantamweight championship and widespread acclaim from the fighting community.
Merab Dvalishvili just ended the reign of “Suga” Sean O’Malley.
The Georgian grappling machine showcased his talents in the main event of UFC 306. He repeatedly took O’Malley to the mat, maintaining relentless pressure throughout their five-round fight. When the decision was read, he was crowned the new UFC bantamweight champion.
It was a dominant performance for Dvalishvili. Known for his endless cardio and non-stop aggression, he left fellow fighters impressed with how he dethroned O’Malley.
Former two-division champion Henry Cejudo had a harsh take on the fight. On social media, he wrote that O’Malley went “from sugar to shit!”
The night’s most newsworthy tweet might have come from undefeated contender Umar Nurmagomedov. He tweeted that he and Dvalishvili “have to be” matched up next.
See more reactions from the fighting community below.
Umar Nurmagomedov tweeted: “White Papakha vs Black Papakha. Have to be. Congratulations @MerabDvalishvil. Right now you champion. You deserve this belt. Enjoy.”
Terrance McKinney found humor in the situation, tweeting: “Merab funny as hell kissing that boy lmfao.”
Aljamain Sterling praised the fairness of the fight: “That’s what a fair fight looks like against the best guy in the world! None of that stacking deck bullshit to get an advantage! #UFC306.”
Chito Vera shared his thoughts: “I call it the other way, but congrats Merab well fought.”
Terrance McKinney also expressed concern: “Fuck man them front kicks had me scared for a sec congrats to Merab what a performance.”
Dominick Cruz analyzed Dvalishvili’s tactics: “Merab is fighting very smart so far. He is using forward pressure like always, however, the feints and kicks to set up his boxing are connecting him to the takedowns on Omally, and he’s holding him down very well also. Very smart tactics for Merab #UFCNoche.”
Rampage Jackson showed respect: “Mojob worked hard. Can’t be mad at him. Respect.”
Dan Ige couldn’t contain his excitement: “Merab is a beast. Excited to see him and Umar.”
And that’s a wrap! The MMA community is buzzing with reactions after an electrifying night at UFC 306.