Sean O’Malley Denies UFC Gives Him Special Treatment, Addresses Potential Rematches with Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili

Sean O’Malley says UFC matchmaking is not as simple as fans may think, even for one of the promotion’s biggest stars. Although he has often been able to request high-profile fights, O’Malley stressed that the UFC ultimately makes the decisions, not the fighters. He pointed to his recent history as proof: when he was bantamweight champion, he defended the title against Marlon “Chito” Vera because Vera held a win over him, and after losing the belt to Merab Dvalishvili, he was given an immediate rematch. O’Malley said those outcomes were not guarantees based on his popularity, but rather UFC choices.

Looking ahead to his upcoming fight at the UFC White House card, O’Malley said he initially asked to face Petr Yan, but the request was denied. He added that he also wanted to fight Aiemann Zahabi in his previous outing, only for the UFC to instead book Song Yadong. Eventually, the promotion offered Zahabi, and O’Malley accepted. He said the situation shows that public belief he controls his own matchmaking is inaccurate. According to O’Malley, the UFC simply operates on its own terms, and he is happy with the matchup.

The matchup with Zahabi comes on one of the biggest cards of the year and could put O’Malley back into title contention if he wins convincingly. Still, he recognizes that the bantamweight picture may not break his way. Dvalishvili has already said he expects to get the next title opportunity when he is ready, and O’Malley is aware that the champion’s recent workload may influence the UFC’s plans. Dvalishvili fought four title bouts in one year, and O’Malley suggested the promotion may feel inclined to reward that level of activity.

O’Malley also acknowledged that his path back to a title shot may depend on more than just an impressive performance. He said he does not know whether a knockout win over Zahabi would move him ahead of Dvalishvili in the line for another championship opportunity. If it does, he will be ready. If not, he said he would wait and see how the division unfolds.

Despite losing twice to Dvalishvili, O’Malley said he has developed a strange but respectful relationship with the champion. Dvalishvili has even expressed support for O’Malley in past fights, which O’Malley interpreted as a sign of mutual respect. He described Dvalishvili as unusual but likable, and said he would not be surprised if they shared the octagon again. Still, O’Malley admitted that a third fight may not be what fans want right now.

For now, O’Malley says none of the title talk matters unless he gets past Zahabi. His focus is entirely on Sunday’s fight, and he believes the rest will sort itself out if he keeps winning.