Sean O’Malley is already talking about his first title defense for his 135-pound title.
In the main event of UFC 292 on August 19, O’Malley is set to challenge Aljamain Sterling for his title in what will be the champion’s fourth defense. Sugar will try to achieve what many believe and hope to achieve with his career – and cement him as one of the biggest stars in the sport.
However, while Sterling’s title reign began in somewhat controversial fashion, “Funkmaster” did everything he could to establish himself as a champion and eventually become undeniable. Among his three titles won are Peter Yan, TJ Dillashaw and, most recently, Henry Cejudo.
Sean O’Malley talks about his first title defense options
Although O’Malley has a huge challenge ahead of him, he is already debating who his first title defense will be. Bantamweight is arguably the most talent-rich division in the entire sport and has elite talent spread from top to bottom.
Via his YouTube, O’Malley ruled out a confrontation with Corey Sandhagen afterward, but left the door open for a clash with a former opponent.
Corey won’t get the next damn title shotO’Malley said. “If “Chito” wins… it’s probably Henry vs. Chito (the winner). I’ll pick and choose after (beating Sterling).” ( H/T MMA News)
Sandhagen is currently booked to face the rising #11 contender, Umar Nurmagomedov, on August 5 in the main event of Fight Night. As mentioned earlier, Cejudo and Vera are booked to face each other on the undercard of UFC 292, and a win for either of them could greatly boost their title claims.
If he beats Aljaman Sterling, who would you like to see Sean O’Malley face in his first title defense?