Noche UFC at the stunning Sphere in Las Vegas delivered on its promise of high-octane action and unforgettable moments. UFC 306 was a spectacle, and the main card did not disappoint as two new champions were crowned in thrilling fashion. The night featured a five-fight extravaganza filled with jaw-dropping moments, including a remarkable comeback, a barnburner, and the ascension of two new UFC champions.
The co-main and main events stole the show, with a historic trilogy fight in the women’s flyweight division followed by a highly anticipated bantamweight title grudge match.
In the main event, Merab Dvalishvili, “The Machine,” claimed the UFC bantamweight title by dethroning Sean O’Malley via unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47). The Georgian standout executed a masterclass in wrestling and pressure, using his trademark high-pace approach to keep O’Malley’s explosive offense in check.
Dvalishvili neutralized O’Malley’s striking, repeatedly forcing the action to the canvas and controlling the champion from top position. Known for his relentless cardio and takedown-heavy game, Dvalishvili out-hustled O’Malley, grinding out round after round and leaving the once-dynamic champion off balance. O’Malley, who had dazzled fans with his striking in recent bouts, was unable to generate meaningful offense, as Dvalishvili’s suffocating grappling kept him on the defensive.
This victory marks Dvalishvili’s 11th straight win and his first UFC title, making him the second member of the Serra-Longo Fight Team to win the bantamweight championship, following in the footsteps of teammate Aljamain Sterling. With this victory, Dvalishvili solidifies himself as one of the most dominant wrestlers in the sport, and the bantamweight division now has a new king.
In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko delivered a flawless performance, defeating Alexa Grasso by unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to become the UFC women’s flyweight champion once again. This fight marked the third encounter between Shevchenko and Grasso, with the rivalry coming to a decisive close in Shevchenko’s favor.
Shevchenko showcased her world-class striking and tactical acumen, controlling every round with precision and power. Grasso, who had previously dethroned Shevchenko, struggled to find her rhythm as the former champion outclassed her in all aspects of the fight. From sharp counterstrikes to calculated grappling, Shevchenko demonstrated why she is one of the most feared and respected fighters in the UFC.
The dominant victory not only restored Shevchenko’s reign atop the flyweight division but also cemented her legacy as one of the greatest female fighters in MMA history.
UFC 306 was a night of intense action and unforgettable moments. From the opening fight to the crowning of new champions, the event showcased the very best of the sport. Fans were treated to a mix of skill, heart, and drama, culminating in two outstanding championship performances.
With Dvalishvili’s wrestling prowess overwhelming O’Malley and Shevchenko’s brilliance reclaiming her flyweight throne, UFC 306 will go down as a night when the tides of the bantamweight and flyweight divisions shifted once again.
The landscape of the UFC now has two new champions leading their respective divisions, and the future is bright for the new champions, Merab Dvalishvili and Valentina Shevchenko.
