UFC Noche: Merab Dvalishvili upsets Sean O'Malley to win bantamweight title
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Dvalishvili has participated in 11 out of his 13 matches in the UFC organization.
Merab Dvalishvili surprised everyone by beating Sean O'Malley to claim the bantamweight championship with a unanimous decision at UFC Noche held in Las Vegas.
Georgia's Dvalishvili, 33, showcased his outstanding wrestling skills, overpowering American O'Malley with his usual unyielding grappling style during the inaugural sport event held at the Sphere.
The fight featured some strange happenings, including a moment in the first round when the referee had to reprimand Dvalishvili for arguing with O'Malley's coach, and in the second round, he surprisingly kissed his opponent.
This win adds to Dvalishvili's impressive streak, bringing it to 11 consecutive victories, while O'Malley, often seen as a future global sensation in the UFC, has now lost his title in just his second defense.
"Today, I am the top fighter in the UFC, and I have demonstrated that," expressed a passionate Dvalishvili.
"I wasn't caught off guard; I can handle 15 rounds like this. He's a talented fighter, but I managed to make him seem average."
In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko from Kyrgyzstan secured a unanimous decision victory against Mexico's Alexa Grasso, reclaiming her flyweight championship title.
The fight marked the first-ever trilogy matchup between women in UFC history, during which Shevchenko showcased her ground game effectively. At the age of 36, she claimed the championship title for the second time.
The UFC spent $20 million (£15.3 million) to hold the event at the Sphere, a venue that markets itself as a unique immersive experience. The event was renamed UFC Noche to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.
A film, divided into segments, was shown all evening on the large LED screens that adorned the interior of the arena, celebrating Mexico's rich history and culture.
Dvalishvili Shines In A Spectacular Win
Source of the image: Getty Images
The matches took place against stunning backgrounds at the Sphere.
UFC president Dana White promised that the upcoming event would feature "the most spectacular live combat sports event anyone has ever witnessed," praising the Sphere as "the highlight of the show."
The event featured dazzling holograms of the fighters looming above the audience, with matches taking place against stunning settings that included fiery Aztec pyramids and a sleek, modern version of Mexico City.
During various moments throughout the evening, vibrant marigold petals and confetti showered the audience while videos celebrated the country's legacy in combat sports.
At 29 years old, O'Malley was selected to represent the bold event, but he encountered Dvalishvili, a rival who skillfully countered his threatening counter-striking techniques.
At the start of the fight, Dvalishvili oddly focused on O'Malley’s coach, Tim Welch, as they talked with each other. This prompted referee Herb Dean to step in and issue a warning to both of them.
Dvalishvili made his intentions clear right from the start by consistently moving his feet to maintain distance from O'Malley. He carefully timed his takedowns when the opportunity presented itself.
After keeping O'Malley on the mat for a large part of the second round, an unusual incident occurred as Dvalishvili repeatedly pressed his lips to O'Malley’s back while trying to execute a submission.
His behavior led to yet another caution from Dean, while O'Malley reacted with anger by delivering a blow to the side of the head.
O'Malley delivered his strongest performance in the third round, connecting with jabs and a knee strike. However, Dvalishvili quickly got back on track with his strategy.
The Georgian fighter showcased his strength throughout the match, putting pressure on O'Malley and successfully bringing him to the ground several times before the end of the fifth round, ultimately claiming his first UFC championship.
Shevchenko Reclaims Flyweight Title
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Shevchenko improved her record to 25 victories and 4 losses.
In March, Grasso, who is 31 years old, shocked Shevchenko by breaking her impressive streak of seven consecutive title defenses in the flyweight division.
Last September, the two had a rematch where Grasso kept her title after the fight ended in a draw. Earlier this year, they also squared off as rival coaches on the reality TV series, The Ultimate Fighter.
During their landmark encounter at the Sphere, Grasso entered as the favorite for the first time in their trilogy. However, she struggled to respond to Shevchenko's comprehensive skill set.
Shevchenko showcased impressive counter striking, combining it with takedowns and effective ground control, allowing her to dominate each round against her Mexican opponent.
Grasso's greatest opportunity to win arose when she attempted an armbar and triangle submission from her back. Although Shevchenko faced some tense moments, she managed to defend effectively and swiftly took charge of the match again.
Grasso, putting her hands on her hips, became increasingly frustrated between the rounds. When the final bell sounded, she trudged sadly to her corner while Shevchenko celebrated joyfully.
"The strategy was to enter the ring and battle until the very end, giving everything possible to secure a victory," Shevchenko said.
"I'd like to express my gratitude to Alexa and her team. This competition showcases exactly what fans have been looking for in women's martial arts, and it will be remembered for years to come."
