UFC 316 Biggest Winner and Loser

UFC 316 was packed with shocking and unexpected moments, including two Bantamweight title fights in both the men’s and women’s divisions. From a brutal knockout by Joosang Yoo in the early prelims to a second dominant victory over Sean O’Malley by Georgian Champ Merab Dvalishvili, Saturday night’s event delivered for the fans.

Biggest Winner: Kayla Harrison

Kayla Harrison only needed two rounds to claim the Woman’s Bantamweight title. She executed an outstanding performance against former champion Julianna Peña, finishing the fight with a second-round submission. The 34-year-old Olympic gold medalist showcased her elite Jiu-Jitsu skills throughout the bout and nearly broke Peña’s arm before forcing a tap with just five seconds remaining in the round.

While the win was monumental, what lies ahead could be even bigger. UFC Hall of Famer Amanda Nunes is coming out of retirement to challenge Harrison for the title. This sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown that offers Harrison a chance to defeat arguably the greatest woman’s UFC fighter of all time and securing a massive payday while headlining another major UFC event.

Harrison has been steadily building her legacy with a 19-1 record, and now, with a chance to knock off a legend, she may be on track for a Hall of Fame career of her own.

UFC Champions Merab Dvalishvili and Kayla Harrison posing with their belts. (Photo Credit: merab.dvalishvili)

Biggest Loser: Patchy Mix

Patchy Mix made his UFC debut on the main card of UFC 316, taking on the No. 10 contender Mario Bautista in the men’s Bantamweight division. It is rare for UFC President Dana White to match a debuting fighter with a top-ten opponent, but Mix is no ordinary newcomer. A former three-time Bellator champion, Mix entered the UFC with a 20-1-0 professional record and 15 finishes on his resume, making him the betting favorite.

However, once the fight began, it was clear Mix was battling some serious octagon jitters.

Bautista took control early, convincingly winning the first round. The story did not change in rounds two and three. Mix was outclassed from start to finish. Bautista outlanded him by over 50 significant strikes and easily defended Mix’s only takedown attempt. UFC commentator Daniel Cormier repeatedly noted Mix’s lack of head and foot movement, a glaring issue throughout the fight.

Bautista walked away with a unanimous decision win, handing Mix his first loss since 2020.

What comes next for Mix is crucial. After a disappointing UFC debut, the former Bellator champ needs to prove he can compete at the highest level. His next performance will be vital in shaping his UFC legacy.