Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - BEST OF UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili on facing O'Malley, Kayla Harrison compares Peña to Chihuahua
Release Date: June 17, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, listeners are treated to insightful discussions surrounding the aftermath of UFC 316. The primary focus revolves around Merab Dvalishvili's upcoming rematch with Sean O'Malley and Kayla Harrison's perspectives on Julianna Peña. Hosted by Rob Font, the conversation delves deep into fighter motivations, strategies, and personal anecdotes, providing fans with a comprehensive understanding of the fighters' mindsets and preparations.

Interview with Merab Dvalishvili

Merab Dvalishvili joins Rob Font to discuss his upcoming second fight against Sean O'Malley, following his victory over Umar Nurmagomedov.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Opponent Selection and UFC's Role ([02:32] - [03:25])

   • Merab explains the selection process for his rematch with O'Malley.
   • Merab: "It's Sean O'Malley. Peteriano was supposed to fight somebody else. And yeah, I'm happy. I'm happy. I have another fight coming up."

2. Gym Incident and Training Dynamics ([03:25] - [04:01])

   • Rob Font brings up a video where Merab punches one of his wrestling affiliates during training.
   • Rob Font: "Why you punched the guy's stomach?"
   • Merab: "It was just fine, but you killed it."

3. Performance Analysis in Previous Fight ([04:04] - [07:16])

   • Merab reflects on his fight against Umar, discussing his early rounds and late-game strategies.
   • Merab: "I show everybody this time. I think one time I got him good body punch too."

4. Strategies for the Rematch ([07:16] - [10:05])

   • Discussing how to adapt strategies against a more motivated and skilled O'Malley.
   • Merab: "I'm putting extra, extra motivate myself to know this guy is dangerous, this guy hits hard."

5. Surprises in the Previous Fight ([10:05] - [12:28])

   • Merab shares unexpected elements from his first fight with O'Malley, including dealing with body kicks and referee decisions.
   • Merab: "I should not let him go. Just punch him and look at the ref go."

Notable Quotes:

• Merab Dvalishvili ([04:38]): "I was positive. And like, we know, you know, like, my coaches now told me to, like, after the first rounds, just keep doing your thing."

• Merab Dvalishvili ([07:05]): "It's a new challenge for me. It's a new fight and I'm looking forward to it."

• Merab Dvalishvili ([08:10]): "That's why I'm, like, I'm putting extra, extra motivate myself to know this guy is dangerous."

Interview with Kayla Harrison

Kayla Harrison, UFC Bantamweight Champion, engages in a dynamic conversation with Rob Font about her journey, upcoming fights, and insights into her opponent, Julianna Peña.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Transition to UFC and Championship Aspirations ([23:25] - [25:02])

   • Kayla reflects on her seamless transition from judo to MMA and her path to becoming a champion.
   • Kayla: "I think that having all this Experience that I have, having years of competing on the biggest stages in the world has been prepared me."

2. Analyzing Julianna Peña's Fight ([25:02] - [26:57])

   • Discussing Peña's strategies and mental game, including her tactics during their previous encounter.
   • Kayla: "She doesn't call for me. I just attest that insecurity to me."

3. Fight Strategy and Improvements ([29:19] - [31:17])

   • Kayla explores lessons learned from previous matches and how she plans to implement them against Peña.
   • Kayla: "If you have experience, you have to balance your life a little bit."

4. Future Ambitions and Potential Matchups ([31:17] - [33:10])

   • She expresses her desire to face legends like Amanda Nunes and her confidence in her skills.
   • Kayla: "I'm prepared for 25 hard minutes, but the goal is always to go out there and KO, TKO, or submission."

Notable Quotes:

• Kayla Harrison ([25:09]): "I didn't give the fight to her. After going back and watching it, I thought that Raquel won the fight."

• Kayla Harrison ([27:07]): "I have three dogs, and, you know, I have a big mastiff. I have a medium husky, and then I have this little Chihuahua. And the Chihuahua sounds vicious."

• Kayla Harrison ([28:27]): "I see heart. I see heart. I see fire."

• Kayla Harrison ([32:42]): "I'm the best in the world, you're the best in the world, and it doesn't matter."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers an in-depth look into the minds of two prominent UFC fighters, Merab Dvalishvili and Kayla Harrison. Through candid conversations, both athletes share their motivations, strategies, and personal experiences, providing fans with a richer understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest levels of MMA. From Merab's tactical rematch preparations against Sean O'Malley to Kayla's dominance in the bantamweight division and her aspirations to challenge the greats, the episode encapsulates the relentless spirit and dedication of UFC fighters.

Notable Sections Covered:

• Merab Dvalishvili on Facing Sean O'Malley

  • Opponent selection and fight strategy
  • Overcoming challenges and maintaining motivation
  • Insights into previous fight performances

• Kayla Harrison on Comparing Julianna Peña to a Chihuahua

  • Evaluating Peña's fighting style and mental toughness
  • Personal anecdotes and future fight ambitions
  • Strategic improvements and preparations for upcoming bouts

Timestamps Reference:

• Merab Dvalishvili Interview: [02:32] – [12:28]
• Kayla Harrison Segment: [23:25] – [33:10]

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the key discussions and providing valuable insights into the fighters' preparations and mindsets. Whether you're an avid UFC fan or new to the sport, this episode offers a deeper appreciation of what drives these elite athletes to excel in the octagon.