Merab Dvalishvili Wins UFC Bantamweight Title

Merab Dvalishvili claimed the UFC Bantamweight title at UFC 306, decisively defeating Sean O'Malley by unanimous decision. Dvalishvili utilized his grappling skills to dominate the fight, repeatedly taking O'Malley down and controlling the pace throughout the five rounds, with judges scoring it 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47 in his favor. In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko reclaimed her flyweight championship against Alexa Grasso, winning all five rounds on the judges' scorecards. The event, held at the Sphere in Las Vegas, celebrated Mexican heritage in conjunction with the country's Independence Day, showcasing impressive visuals and cultural tributes. Despite O'Malley's status as a slight favorite, Dvalishvili's relentless strategy proved too much for him to handle. The night was marked by a blend of sporting achievement and innovative entertainment, as UFC President Dana White emphasized the significance of the event for Mexican culture.