As the UFC returns to Las Vegas for its 306th numbered event, the stakes are higher than ever for the UFC, with their highly anticipated debut at the Las Vegas Sphere. UFC 306 promises clashes with high stakes and introduces a revolutionary viewing experience. The event, headlined by a Bantamweight title fight between Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili, features a classic cliche as old as the first UFC: a striker vs. grappler matchup.
Main Event: Bantamweight Championship
In a thrilling showcase of contrasting styles, Sean O'Malley, the dynamic striker and current Bantamweight champion, faces the relentless wrestler Merab Dvalishvili. The fight is billed as a pick'em on the betting odds line, showcasing how tough this battle will be to predict. O'Malley will be looking to secure his second title defense, whereas Dvalishvili will look to avenge his teammate and longtime friend, Aljamain Sterling, and claim the 135 strap in the process.
Co-Main Event: Women's Flyweight Championship
Alexa Grasso defends her title in a trilogy bout against former champion Valentina Shevchenko. Their previous encounter ended in a draw nearly one year ago, and since then, the pair have engaged in a season of the Ultimate Fighter, spurring their rivalry to its climax here. Grasso aims to cement her status as the division's top fighter, while Shevchenko seeks to reclaim her championship and secure a much-needed victory, marking her first fight as an underdog in eight years.
Featherweight Bout
Brian Ortega returns to the octagon to face off against Diego Lopes in a bout that could have significant implications for the Featherweight rankings. Lopes is riding a five-fight win streak, including four finishes, whereas Ortega is coming off a career-biggest victory over Yair Rodriguez earlier this year. Both fighters have elite submission skills and good power on the feet, and both lack substantial defense, too, almost guaranteeing this will be FOTN until one man crumbles.
Lightweight Bout
Rising stars Daniel Zellhuber and Esteban Ribovics clash in a Lightweight contest that could propel the winner into a ranking in the division. Both fighters have shown potential in their previous bouts, and the pair have a combined record of 28-2, highlighting their skillset on the regional scene of MMA. But now, it's time for both of them to test each other, and whoever emerges victorious from this fight could be looking at a big fight next in 2025.
Ode Osbourne vs. Ronaldo Rodriguez
Kicking off the main card, Ode Osbourne takes on Ronaldo Rodriguez in a Flyweight bout. Both fighters are known for their speed and agility, making this an exciting match to set the tone for the night.
Storylines to Watch:
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