LAS VEGAS -- UFC made history by hosting Noche UFC 306 at Sphere in Las Vegas, transforming the combat sports world with a one-time-only venue experience that stunned audiences both live and at home.
Known for its breathtaking 360-degree visuals and LED display, the Sphere amplified the energy of fight night in ways audiences have never seen before. Fighters entered the cage against a backdrop of dynamic lighting and immersive video displaying the history of combat in Mexico, creating an atmosphere that was as much about the Mexican fighting spirit as it was about martial arts. This cutting-edge venue allowed fans to feel like they were part of the action, with larger-than-life landscapes and fight imagery surrounding them from every angle.
In the main event, Merab Dvalishvili put on a cardio clinic to capture the Bantamweight title via unanimous decision over Sean O'Malley. From the outset of the fight, Merab applied relentless pressure, shooting for takedowns at every opening and engaging O'Malley in grueling grappling exchanges. Though O'Malley was able to defend some of the attempts, Merab’s top control and heavy pressure proved to be enough to wear him down over five rounds. Merab’s non-stop output and ability to control the action, both in the clinch and on the ground, led to a clear decision win, with the judges rewarding his dominance in a grueling contest at the Sphere.
“Crazy, I feel like I’m in a dream,” Dvalishvili said. “I wasn’t thinking about the belt, I was thinking about O’Malley. I made him look normal.”
Next in line for the title will likely be Umar Nurmagomedov, who secured a dominant win over Cory Sandhagen in August.
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In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko reclaimed her flyweight title with a dominant decision victory over Alexa Grasso. From the opening bell, Shevchenko made her game plan clear: impose her wrestling and control the fight on the ground. She repeatedly secured takedowns, using her strength and superior top control to keep Grasso pinned to the mat for extended periods. Grasso tried to scramble and find moments to get back to her feet, but Shevchenko’s top pressure and relentless pursuit of control shut down any momentum the Mexican champion could muster. Although she came close to completing various arm-bars and guillotine chokes, Grasso was ultimately unable to upset the former champion’s control. By the final round, it was evident that Shevchenko’s wrestling prowess had carried her to a unanimous decision, as the judges awarded her a decisive win to close the trilogy.
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Other notable wins from tonight include Diego Lopes, Esteban Ribovics, and Ronaldo Rodriguez. The UFC's next PPV will take place in Salt Lake City, UT, and will be headlined by Alex Pereira and Khalil Rountree Jr. in a Light Heavyweight title fight.
