Thu. Jul 3rd, 2025

Sean O’Malley Gears Up for UFC 316 with UFC Legend

Sean O`Malley is deep into training camp as he prepares for his highly anticipated UFC 316 title fight rematch against Merab Dvalishvili on June 7.

After losing his bantamweight title to Dvalishvili at UFC 306 last September, a defeat O`Malley attributed in part to lingering injuries, he took a break to focus on recovery.

Following Dvalishvili`s successful title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311, the UFC officially announced the rematch between Dvalishvili and O`Malley for UFC 316.

In response to his loss to `The Machine,` O`Malley has made significant lifestyle adjustments, including stepping back from social media to dedicate more time to his training and recovery.

Sean O’Malley vs Merab Dvalishvili UFC 306
Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili face off at UFC 306. Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Israel Adesanya Joins Sean O`Malley`s Training Camp

Adding to his preparations for the rematch, O`Malley has enlisted the help of fellow UFC star Israel Adesanya for training.

O`Malley and Adesanya, both rising stars around the same time, were once seen as potential successors to Conor McGregor in terms of stardom.

Adesanya, currently facing a three-fight losing streak after a recent defeat to Nassourdine Imavov, is looking to revitalize his career trajectory.

To this end, `The Last Stylebender` has joined O`Malley at `The Suga Factory,` working alongside the former bantamweight champion and his coach, Tim Welch.

Videos on Adesanya`s Instagram story show him practicing striking combinations with Welch and training with O`Malley at his facility.

Fan Criticism Over Rematch Decision

The announcement of an immediate rematch for O`Malley sparked debate among fans, with many arguing that he did not warrant an immediate title shot after his loss.

O`Malley has dismissed these criticisms, asserting that the rematch will be a different fight due to his improved health and preparation.

Accusations of preferential treatment are not new to O`Malley, as he has faced such comments throughout his UFC career.

By Adrian Whitmore

Adrian Whitmore, 41, brings over fifteen years of experience covering tennis and golf tournaments from his base in Liverpool. His distinctive storytelling approach combines statistical analysis with behind-the-scenes insights.

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