Sean O’Malley next fight: Dana White breaks silence on Merab Dvalishvili rematch for superstar

UFC CEO Dana White drops a massive hint on a potential rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O'Malley.

Sean O’Malley next fight: Dana White breaks silence on Merab Dvalishvili rematch for superstar

Dana White reacts to the buzz surrounding a potential rematch between Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili (Image via MMA Fighting/Fox Sports)

UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili successfully defended his title for the first time at UFC 311. Following that fight, he expressed interest in facing several opponents, including Sean O’Malley. Most recently, UFC CEO Dana White shared his thoughts on the situation and also dropped a major hint regarding future matchups.

Recently, Georgian champion Merab Dvalishvilo mentioned his potential opponents for his upcoming title defense. Notably, the champion expressed his desire to compete against either Sean O’Malley or Petr Yan. Following this announcement, UFC CEO Dana White was asked about it during a recent press conference in Seattle. In response, White enthusiastically joined in on the excitement surrounding the buzz.

They want to fight each other, and I think people want to see it.

Dana White via UFC Seattle post-fight press conference
YouTube video

The fight between O’Malley and Dvalishvili occurred as the headliner bout at the grand Noche UFC event (UFC 306). After a hard-fought battle lasting five rounds, the Georgian fighter dominated the Montana native and won by unanimous decision. However, O’Malley was in disbelief over losing to Dvalishvili. Consequently, the Montana native immediately sought a rematch.

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An immediate rematch was not possible because O’Malley had to undergo hip surgery. Additionally, Dvalishvili wanted to take some time off before his first title defense fight. Shockingly, after facing harsh criticism from Umar Nurmagomedov, the Georgian fighter decided to step into the octagon. Interestingly, against all odds, Dvalishvili dominated Nurmagomedov and won decisively, significantly raising his stature in the UFC.

Team Merab Dvalishvili believes Sean O’Malley would suffer a brutal defeat in a rematch

Both Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili are arguably two of the standout fighters in the UFC bantamweight division. One of the significant reasons for this is their impressive fight record in the promotion. Apart from losing against Dvalishvili and Marlon Vera, O’Malley hasn’t suffered defeat from any other formidable fighters in the 135 lbs division.

Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili in action at Noche UFC
Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili in action at Noche UFC (Image via Forbes)

Currently, the UFC bantamweight champion is on an impressive 12-fight winning streak. As a result, Dvalishvili and his team are feeling confident about a potential rematch against O’Malley. In a recent interview, Dvalishvili’s coach, John Wood, shared his thoughts on how Dvalishvili would perform against the Montana native in their second matchup.

Honestly, I think Merab finishes him in a rematch. I really do. I think that it’s a two-sided sword where O’Malley’s been in there with Merab. He’s going to go back to the drawing board and figure out what he felt in there, try to work on it, try to get better, and try to stop those things.

John Wood via Sportkeeda MMA Originals
YouTube video

Both fighters have distinct fighting styles. O’Malley is known for his impressive striking abilities, while Dvalishvili relies on a wrestling-dominated approach. During their last matchup, the Montana native appeared unable to counter the Georgian fighter’s tactics. If they were to fight again, it would be intriguing to see O’Malley’s game plan in a rematch against Dvalishvili.

Related: Merab Dvalishvili Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Girlfriend and House