The UFC has announced Merab Dvalishvili will defend his bantamweight title against Sean O’Malley in a rematch at UFC 316. This decision has been met with considerable negativity from fans.
Dvalishvili previously defeated O’Malley at UFC 306 in September, dominating the fight with his wrestling. Despite this clear victory, O’Malley insisted he performed better than reflected in the judges` scores and has been pushing for a rematch ever since.
Following his win over O’Malley, Dvalishvili successfully defended his title against Umar Nurmagomedov. O’Malley, meanwhile, has been inactive due to hip surgery. Now, O’Malley will get his desired rematch on June 7 in Newark, N.J., without competing in another fight first.
Many fans are critical of the UFC`s decision to grant O’Malley an immediate rematch, considering it undeserved. Online reactions to the UFC 316 main event announcement reflect widespread disappointment and anger.