Harrison and Dvalishvili Crowned Champions at UFC 316 Amidst Star-Studded Attendance

Sun 8th Jun, 2025

In a thrilling night at UFC 316 held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, Kayla Harrison and Merab Dvalishvili emerged as champions in their respective weight classes, captivating an audience that included notable figures such as President Donald Trump and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. Harrison, a decorated judo Olympian, celebrated her victory in the women's bantamweight division, while Dvalishvili successfully defended his title in the men's.

Harrison, who was previously known for her Olympic success, showcased her skills by defeating Julianna Peña, forcing her to submit with only seconds remaining in the second round. This victory marked a significant milestone in Harrison's MMA career, as she added the UFC title to her impressive collection of accolades.

Dvalishvili, on the other hand, retained his 135-pound title after a dominant performance against Sean O'Malley, securing a submission victory in the third round. With this win, Dvalishvili extended his winning streak to 13 fights, further solidifying his place among the elite in the UFC.

Both champions reveled in their achievements backstage, with Dvalishvili enthusiastically congratulating Harrison and celebrating their status as champions together. While Harrison enjoys her newly acquired title, she is aware of the looming challenge posed by Amanda Nunes, who is making a comeback to reclaim the title she once held.

The event was electrifying, with 17,343 fans in attendance, and the atmosphere was further amplified by Trump's presence, who received a warm welcome as he entered the arena. The night began with a vibrant introduction, setting the stage for an exhilarating fight card.

Harrison had previously made headlines in the judo world, becoming the first U.S. judoka to win Olympic gold before transitioning to MMA, where she has quickly risen to prominence. Her record now stands at an impressive 19-1, showcasing her rapid ascent in the sport.

As the night unfolded, Dvalishvili's celebratory moment included a passionate address to the fans, expressing his excitement and gratitude for their support. The camaraderie between the two champions was evident as they celebrated their respective successes, symbolizing a new era in their divisions.

In the post-fight excitement, Harrison expressed her desire to face Nunes, acknowledging her as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. The audience was treated to a brief face-off between the two, igniting anticipation for a potential future showdown.

In summary, UFC 316 was a landmark event that not only highlighted the achievements of Harrison and Dvalishvili but also reinforced the growing popularity of women's MMA. With significant matchups on the horizon, the sport continues to evolve, promising thrilling encounters for fans around the world.


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