Get Ready for the Most Explosive Night in UFC History: O'Malley vs. Dvalishvili, Grasso vs. Shevchenko III, and More!
UFC 306, taking place at the breathtaking Sphere in Las Vegas, promises to be a monumental night as the promotion celebrates Mexican and Latin American heritage in a high-stakes showdown. Featuring the long-awaited bantamweight title clash between “Suga” Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili, along with a trilogy for the women’s flyweight championship between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko, this pay-per-view is stacked with must-watch fights from top to bottom.
Let’s dive deep into the fight card for this electric event!
Main Event: UFC Bantamweight Championship
Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili
In the main event, UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley defends his belt against the relentless No. 1 contender Merab Dvalishvili. O’Malley, one of the sport's flashiest and most dynamic strikers, captured the belt with a brutal KO of Aljamain Sterling. O’Malley blends unpredictable movement, striking creativity, and knockout power to overwhelm his opponents.
On the other hand, Merab Dvalishvili is a cardio machine and grappling expert on a 10-fight win streak, including wins over former champions like Jose Aldo and Petr Yan. Known for his relentless pressure, Dvalishvili will look to drag O’Malley into deep waters with his suffocating wrestling and non-stop pace.
Prediction: This will be a classic clash of styles—O’Malley’s precision striking versus Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling. If Dvalishvili can close the distance and wear down the champ, we could see a new titleholder. However, if O’Malley keeps it standing and uses his range, he might retain the belt via a devastating KO.
Co-Main Event: UFC Women’s Flyweight Championship
Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko III
This trilogy is shaping up to be one of the most storied rivalries in women’s MMA. In their first encounter, Grasso shocked the world by dethroning the long-reigning Shevchenko with a slick submission. The rematch ended in a controversial draw at Noche UFC 2023, leaving both women unsatisfied.
Alexa Grasso, the Mexican champion, has grown significantly in her all-around game, particularly her striking and grappling. Shevchenko, one of the most dominant champions in UFC history, remains a deadly striker and world-class tactician. The third fight is more than just for the belt—it’s about legacy and answering the many questions left from their previous two bouts.
Prediction: Expect another razor-close battle with both fighters having their moments. If Grasso can maintain her composure and find openings in Shevchenko’s defense, she may cement herself as the undisputed champion. However, Shevchenko will undoubtedly be looking to reclaim her throne with a vengeance.
Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes
After injury setbacks, Brian Ortega is eager to reignite his path to the featherweight title. Known for his dangerous submission game and resilience, Ortega is always a threat both standing and on the ground. His opponent, Diego Lopes, has been on a tear, racking up wins with an all-action style and elite grappling skills.
This fight promises fireworks, as both men are capable of producing thrilling finishes. Ortega's experience against elite competition may give him the edge, but Lopes is a rising star with nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Prediction: This one could end early if Ortega secures a submission, but Lopes will not make it easy. Expect a war, with Ortega ultimately prevailing by submission in the later rounds.
Daniel Zellhuber vs. Esteban Ribovics
Lightweight prospects Daniel Zellhuber and Esteban Ribovics square off in what could be a low-key Fight of the Night contender. Zellhuber, with his long reach and striking versatility, has bounced back strong since his debut loss, while Ribovics has shown explosive power with lightning-fast finishes.
Both fighters are looking to climb the lightweight ranks, and this fight will showcase their skills on the big stage.
Prediction: Expect a high-paced striking battle with Zellhuber utilizing his range to outpoint
Ribovics in an action-packed contest.
Ronaldo Rodriguez vs. Ode’ Osbourne
Kicking off the main card is a flyweight bout between up-and-coming Ronaldo Rodriguez and the crafty veteran Ode’ Osbourne. Rodriguez has been riding a six-fight win streak, showcasing slick grappling, while Osbourne is a wild card, known for his knockout power and unpredictability.
This matchup pits youth against experience, with Rodriguez looking to establish himself as a future contender.
Prediction: Rodriguez’s grappling may prove too much for Osbourne, leading to a submission victory for the rising star.
Preliminary Card
Irene Aldana vs. Norma Dumont
Former title challenger Irene Aldana takes on surging contender Norma Dumont in a crucial women’s bantamweight fight. Aldana’s sharp boxing and Dumont’s grappling-heavy approach could make for an intriguing clash of styles. Aldana needs a win to stay relevant in the title picture, while Dumont is eyeing her fifth straight victory.
Prediction: Aldana's striking could be the difference-maker, as she looks to outpoint Dumont in a closely contested bout.
Manuel Torres vs. Ignacio Bahamondes
Manuel Torres and Ignacio Bahamondes are all-action fighters with a history of knockouts and finishes. This lightweight battle is a guaranteed barnburner, with both men known for their aggression and KO power.
Prediction: This fight won’t go the distance—expect Torres to edge out Bahamondes with a late TKO.
Yazmin Jauregui vs. Ketlen Souza
Strawweight prospects Yazmin Jauregui and Ketlen Souza meet in an exciting bout as both look to build momentum in their careers. Jauregui, with her well-rounded skill set, will be looking to make a statement, while Souza’s durability will test her resolve.
Prediction: Jauregui’s crisp striking will carry her to a hard-fought decision win.
Edgar Chairez vs. Joshua Van
Flyweight brawlers Edgar Chairez and Joshua Van will kick off the prelims with an action-packed fight. Chairez’s submission skills will clash with Van’s relentless forward pressure.
Prediction: Chairez’s grappling could lead to an early submission, but Van’s pressure might make this a tough contest to call.
Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Aoriqileng
In the opening fight, teenage sensation Raul Rosas Jr. faces veteran Aoriqileng. Rosas has shown immense potential with his grappling, while Aoriqileng brings experience and durability to the Octagon.
Prediction: Rosas will look to use his wrestling to control the fight and possibly lock in a submission for the victory.
Don’t miss UFC 306 Noche, live from Sphere in Las Vegas on September 14, 2024!
Catch the prelims on ESPN+ at 8 PM ET, followed by the main card at 10 PM ET on pay-per-view.\