### Sean O'Malley Preps for Redemption Fight Against Merab Dvalishvili

Sean O'Malley's approach to his second showdown with Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 316 has been markedly different from his previous encounters. The highly-anticipated pay-per-view event will take place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on Saturday, June 7. This bout offers O'Malley a prime opportunity to avenge his loss to Dvalishvili in their previous bantamweight title fight at UFC 306 back in September 2024.

Following the one-sided nature of their last five-round battle, many have been quick to dismiss O'Malley's chances. However, the former champion remains steadfast in his belief that he can turn the tables, largely due to significant lifestyle changes he has implemented.

Renowned coach Tyson Chartier of the New England Cartel has noted these changes, asserting that they could be the "X-factor" in the upcoming fight. Chartier highlighted O'Malley's decision to cut down on social media and to stop smoking cannabis as key factors that might influence his performance for the better.

"I think the X factor is O'Malley's mindset coming into this one," Chartier told E. Spencer Kyte for UFC.com. "He toned down the social media, and a big one to me is that he stopped smoking weed. We've noticed athletes being more present in camp when they have a clear mind because they’re not smoking."

Chartier continued to elaborate on the positive impact of these changes, emphasizing O'Malley's newfound mental clarity and improved attitude. "Obviously, he thought something was going on if he got off it, and with social media, that can be pretty addictive and there is a lot of BS. So I'm interested to see what kind of mindset he comes in with based on the changes he made."

From the other corner, Merab Dvalishvili is fully aware of the heightened challenge he faces in this rematch. In a conversation with Anthony Smith, Dvalishvili acknowledged that O'Malley is likely to be a more formidable opponent due to his lifestyle changes and enhanced preparation.

"I'm fighting the same guy, but I know this guy will be more dangerous now," Dvalishvili remarked. "First fight, I had a game plan that worked against him. Now I don't know what game plan he’s gonna have."

As both fighters gear up for what is expected to be an explosive rematch, Dvalishvili admitted to struggling with motivation but recognizes the need for complete focus. A victory for Dvalishvili would not only secure his position at the top but potentially set him up for a future clash with Cory Sandhagen.

With O'Malley’s quest for redemption and Dvalishvili’s drive to maintain his reign, UFC 316 promises to deliver an electrifying evening of MMA action.