Merab Dvalishvili retains UFC bantamweight title with 13th consecutive win over Sean O'Malley

Merab Dvalishvili successfully defended his UFC bantamweight title by submitting Sean O'Malley in the third round at UFC 316, marking his 13th consecutive victory and solidifying his status as a dominant champion. The fight, held in Newark, featured a highly charged atmosphere with President Donald Trump and other notable figures in attendance, and Dvalishvili notably greeted Trump with a handshake immediately after his win. Kayla Harrison also made history by submitting Julianna Pena to claim the UFC bantamweight championship, setting up a potential blockbuster fight with Amanda Nunes, who has announced her return. Dvalishvili expressed interest in a next title defense against contender Cory Sandhagen, who was present at the event and welcomed the challenge. The victory reinforced Dvalishvili's rise from a 0-2 UFC start to becoming a leading figure in the bantamweight division, while O'Malley suffered his second consecutive loss. The event underscored growing storylines in the UFC, including the emergence of new champions and the involvement of high-profile figures like President Trump in the sport.