Dana White: Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili targeted for UFC 280
O'Malley looking to extend win streak, Dvalishvili aims to crack top-five at bantamweight
Fight to take place on October 22 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili are expected to meet in a bantamweight bout at UFC 280 on October 22 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
O'Malley (15-1 MMA, 7-1 UFC) has won three straight fights since suffering his first career loss to Marlon Vera in August 2020. "Sugar" most recently defeated Pedro Munhoz via first-round TKO at UFC 276 in July.
Dvalishvili (15-4 MMA, 8-2 UFC) has won eight consecutive fights, including a unanimous decision win over former UFC bantamweight champion Jose Aldo in his most recent outing at UFC 278. The victory also earned Dvalishvili the No. 6 ranking in the division.
The matchup between O'Malley and Dvalishvili is an intriguing one. O'Malley is one of the most exciting young fighters in the UFC, and he is known for his flashy striking and quick finishes. Dvalishvili, on the other hand, is a more experienced fighter who is known for his wrestling and grappling skills.
If O'Malley can defeat Dvalishvili, it would be a major statement win for the 27-year-old. It would also likely earn him a title shot against reigning bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling.
For Dvalishvili, a win over O'Malley would be a huge step towards earning a title shot of his own. The 31-year-old has been on a tear lately, and he is now ranked No. 6 in the division. A win over O'Malley would likely move him into the top five, and it would put him in line for a title shot in the near future.
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