UFC 316: Explosive Knockouts & Championship Rivalries

UFC 316 is packed with fireworks, showcasing intense rivalries, championship grudge matches, and knockout artists ready to steal the spotlight. From bantamweight title showdowns to seasoned veterans taking on dangerous contenders, the octagon action is dialed up to eleven. Here’s your essential fight-by-fight preview of what promises to be an unforgettable night.

Main Card Preview

Merab Dvalishvili vs Sean O'Malley

Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili looks to dominate again with his relentless wrestling, facing off against Sean "Sugar" O'Malley’s precise striking. O'Malley must avoid the grappling onslaught to reclaim glory, but Merab’s pace and pressure will likely carry him to another hard-fought decision victory.

✅ Prediction: Dvalishvili by Decision

Julianna Peña vs Kayla Harrison

Former UFC champion Julianna Peña takes on undefeated Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison. Peña’s gritty style will test Harrison early, but expect Harrison’s unmatched grappling control to take over and secure the victory via decision.

✅ Prediction: Harrison by Decision

Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer

Kelvin Gastelum returns to middleweight to face knockout specialist Joe Pyfer in an intriguing battle of experience vs youth. Pyfer poses serious danger with his striking power, but Gastelum’s savvy boxing and toughness should earn him a close decision win.

✅ Prediction: Gastelum by Decision

Mario Bautista vs Patchy Mix

Mario Bautista faces elite grappler and former Bellator champ Patchy Mix. Bautista’s striking skills give him a chance, but Mix’s submission prowess makes him the clear favorite to wrap things up decisively on the ground.

✅ Prediction: Mix by Submission

Vicente Luque vs Kevin Holland

Vicente Luque and Kevin Holland clash again after Luque’s strategic wrestling earned him their first encounter. Holland needs to keep it standing, but Luque’s diverse skillset and fight IQ should see him prevail via decision once more.

✅ Prediction: Luque by Decision

Undercard Preview

Bruno Silva vs Joshua Van

Bruno Silva’s power could end things quickly, but Joshua Van’s relentless volume is likely to overwhelm Silva as the fight progresses.

✅ Prediction: Van by Decision

Azamat Murzakanov vs Brendson Ribeiro

Murzakanov’s undefeated record and devastating knockout power mean Ribeiro could be in trouble early in this explosive light-heavyweight clash.

✅ Prediction: Murzakanov by KO/TKO

Serghei Spivac vs Waldo Cortes-Acosta

Serghei Spivac’s grappling excellence will prove too much for striker Waldo Cortes-Acosta, setting up an inevitable submission finish.

✅ Prediction: Spivac by Submission

Khaos Williams vs Andreas Gustafsson

Explosive power striker Khaos Williams returns looking to make quick work of short-notice newcomer Andreas Gustafsson with a signature knockout.

✅ Prediction: Williams by KO/TKO

Ariane Lipski vs Wang Cong

Muay Thai meets Sanda as Ariane Lipski's UFC experience gives her the edge against newcomer Wang Cong in an exciting stand-up battle.

✅ Prediction: Lipski by Decision

Jeka Saragih vs Joosang Yoo

Expect fireworks as Indonesia’s flashy striker Jeka Saragih tests the composure of undefeated Korean fighter Joosang Yoo, whose calculated approach should secure a submission victory.

✅ Prediction: Yoo by Submission

Quillan Salkilld vs Yanal Ashmouz

Australian Quillan Salkilld looks to deliver another jaw-dropping knockout against aggressive brawler Yanal Ashmouz. Expect a highlight-reel finish.

✅ Prediction: Salkilld by KO/TKO

Marquel Mederos vs Mark Choinski

In an intriguing clash of rising talents, Marquel Mederos’ dynamic striking and versatility should earn him a competitive decision over tough Mark Choinski.

✅ Prediction: Mederos by Decision

Ready to Dive Into the Action?

Whether you're backing the champions, predicting upsets, or just chasing the rush of fight night, UFC 316 has it all. It's time to put your picks to the test - sign up now at SBX.com and take your fight night experience to the next level.

And for more must-watch events this year, check out our list of Top Sports and Racing to Watch in 2025. Let the battles begin!