Legendary fighter Demetrious Johnson was not taken aback by the manner in which Merab Dvalishvili secured victory over Sean O`Malley at UFC 316.
Ahead of his rematch against then-UFC Bantamweight Champion Dvalishvili, Sean O`Malley trained striking with former middleweight king Israel Adesanya and grappling with the former flyweight champion, often considered one of the greatest of all time, Demetrious Johnson.
In the fight, O`Malley successfully defended 7 of Merab Dvalishvili`s 12 persistent takedown attempts but ultimately could not escape a submission hold in the third round and tapped out.
Israel Adesanya had predicted O`Malley would win back the title, whereas Johnson chose not to make a prediction for the UFC 316 main event.
However, after helping O`Malley prepare for the fight, `Mighty Mouse` admitted he had anticipated this outcome to some extent.
Johnson Anticipated Dvalishvili`s Takedown Success Against O`Malley
Johnson believes the crucial factor in defeating a fighter like Dvalishvili is strong defensive wrestling, a point also highlighted by top contender Cory Sandhagen.
Johnson added that he expected Dvalishvili to “run over” O`Malley if Sean primarily sought a single knockout blow.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Johnson recounted their training session: “When I sparred with Sean, did I take him down the rounds we grappled? Yes, I took Sean down. And I knew that if I can take Sean down with me not being a full time fighter, I knew Merab was gonna take him down and be able to mount.”
Johnson continued, discussing Dvalishvili`s reputation: “Word on the street on Merab is that he’s strong as s—. He’s so strong.”
He further elaborated on takedown techniques: “This is the one thing I knew too. When I splurge on the way I shoot my double [leg takedown] like a wrestler that goes underneath like a duck walk. Where Merab, when he shoots, he blasts through almost like a charge, like a spear. So, if Sean were to try to get the guillotine on Merab, he would have to be airborne and lock up the guillotine, which would be extremely hard. You can’t get leverage or a good fight when you’re airborne. You’re getting plowed.”
Demetrious Johnson Praises Merab Dvalishvili: `Just Too Good`
With his dominant performance over O`Malley at UFC 316, Merab Dvalishvili extended his winning streak to 13 fights and claimed the UFC Bantamweight Championship.
With this victory marking his third title fight appearance and adding another top name to his record, Dvalishvili is increasingly being discussed as a potential greatest bantamweight of all time. However, the Georgian himself has pointed to other champions for that distinction.
Dvalishvili earned commendation for his performance against O`Malley from UFC flyweight `GOAT` Demetrious Johnson.
Johnson stated, “Merab is just too good, man.”
He added, perhaps humorously, “But, the good thing is Sean’s got plenty of f—— money.”
Regarding the fight, the former champion remarked, “Great fight.”
He reiterated, “Great f—— fight.”
