UFC tonight brings high-stakes action with UFC 316 fight card live from Newark, New Jersey, headlined by the much-anticipated rematch—Sean O’Malley vs Merab. Fans have been counting the days for this explosive showdown. As the Octagon lights up tonight, all eyes are on whether O’Malley can redeem himself or if Merab continues his dominant run. The latest real-time update confirms doors open at 6 p.m. ET, and the main card starts at 10 p.m. ET, streamed exclusively on ESPN+ PPV in the U.S.
💥 UFC Tonight: Sean O’Malley vs Merab – Redemption or Domination?
The spotlight tonight is firmly on Sean O’Malley vs Merab. The previous encounter left O’Malley struggling against Merab’s unrelenting pressure and grappling mastery. But O’Malley has made serious adjustments. Training camps focused on takedown defense and stamina could shift the outcome.
On the other hand, Merab has shown zero signs of slowing down. With superior wrestling and a chin that hasn’t cracked, he walks into the Octagon as the favorite. If he maintains his pace, O’Malley could face déjà vu. But with striking accuracy and a flair for showmanship, O’Malley is always one clean hit away from changing the story.
📺 UFC 316 Fight Card: Start Time & How to Watch
If you’re wondering what channel is UFC 316 fight card on tonight?, here’s the full breakdown for U.S. viewers and more:
| Event Segment | Start Time (ET/PT) | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Early Prelims | 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT | ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass |
| Prelims | 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT | ESPN / ESPN+ |
| Main Card (PPV) | 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT | ESPN+ PPV (Subscription required) |
Fans outside the U.S. can catch the event via their regional providers, often through Disney+ platforms or local sports networks.
🥊 Full UFC 316 Fight Card Lineup
Main Card (Starts 10 p.m. ET)
- Sean O’Malley vs Merab Dvalishvili – Bantamweight Title
- Julianna Peña vs Kayla Harrison – Women’s Bantamweight Title
- Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer
- Vicente Luque vs Kevin Holland
- Mario Bautista vs Patchy Mix
Prelims (Starts 8 p.m. ET)
- Amanda Ribas vs Michelle Waterson
- Dominick Reyes vs Dustin Jacoby
- Ian Machado Garry vs Neil Magny
- Miranda Maverick vs Maycee Barber
Early Prelims (Starts 6 p.m. ET)
- Bruno Silva vs Joshua Van
- Serghei Spivac vs Waldo Cortes-Acosta
- Terrance McKinney vs Natan Levy
Expect strong performances across the board with rising stars and returning veterans adding heat to the night.
🔍 Key Fight Stories for UFC Fights Tonight
Tonight’s storyline isn’t just about belts—it’s about legacy and redemption.
- Sean O’Malley has transformed his game, reportedly spending less time on distractions and more in the gym. He’s cut weight smarter, trained with top grapplers, and looks to be laser-focused.
- Merab arrives unbeaten in his last dozen fights. His pace and takedowns remain his biggest weapons, and he’s never looked more confident.
- Kayla Harrison, stepping into the UFC spotlight, faces her toughest challenge yet in champion Peña. But the Olympic judo gold medalist brings strength and control unlike anyone in the division.
- Peña, however, thrives under pressure. She’s made a career upsetting expectations and isn’t ready to give up her belt.
📢 UFC Tonight: Must-Know Streaming & Setup Info
- Make sure your ESPN+ subscription is active and the PPV is purchased before 10 p.m. ET.
- Log in on supported devices like Smart TVs, mobile apps, game consoles, or web browsers.
- For the best experience, use high-speed internet and consider preloading your device to avoid lag during peak fight moments.
International viewers should double-check local start times, as they vary by region.
🧠 Predictions: Who Has the Edge?
- O’Malley needs to keep it standing and use range—if he lands clean, he wins.
- Merab must close distance early. A wrestling-heavy game plan could tire out the flashy striker.
- In the women’s co-main, Harrison’s strength is likely to control Peña if she avoids early damage.
But as every fan knows—anything can happen when the cage door closes.
🎯 Why UFC 316 Matters for Fight Fans
UFC fights tonight aren’t just part of another event. This is a historic card packed with championship clashes, unpredictable outcomes, and a reshaping of multiple divisions. The bantamweight crown could change hands or become Merab’s kingdom. A dominant debut could mark the rise of Kayla Harrison as a new UFC force. And undercard surprises could set the tone for future title contention.
Don’t miss tonight’s action—get your stream ready, grab your snacks, and settle in. This is UFC at its finest. Stay tuned for upsets, drama, and all-out war inside the Octagon.