Following UFC 316, an event that managed to produce significant moments despite modest pre-fight expectations, there is considerable fallout to analyze. The pay-per-view card featured standout performances, including dominant championship victories for existing titleholder Merab Dvalishvili and the newly crowned women`s bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison.
The recent episode of `Between the Links` provided an in-depth panel discussion on the event`s results. The analysis focused on UFC 316, delving into Dvalishvili`s impressive showing against Sean O`Malley. This performance prompted a debate on whether Dvalishvili can now be considered the bantamweight GOAT, and what further accomplishments are needed to secure that status. The panel also discussed Harrison`s successful submission victory over Julianna Pena to claim the title and the immense potential surrounding a future confrontation with Amanda Nunes, particularly after their face-off on Saturday night. Another topic covered was Patchy Mix`s unexpected and one-sided decision loss, his reaction to the defeat, and where this performance ranks among notable disappointments for fighters making their UFC debut. Discussions also extended to upcoming fight cards, including events planned for UFC Atlanta and PFL Nashville.
This panel segment was moderated by Mike Heck, featuring contributions from MMA Fighting`s Jed Meshew and Shaheen Al-Shatti.
Murray Blackwood