Sean O`Malley finds himself outside the immediate bantamweight title picture after suffering a significant loss at UFC 316.
In the main event held Saturday at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, O`Malley was defeated by reigning champion Merab Dvalishvili.
Despite O`Malley`s hopes that changes to his training and lifestyle would lead to a different outcome against the Georgian fighter, they were insufficient this time.
Dvalishvili, who had previously beaten O`Malley by decision, successfully defended his title at UFC 316, winning by unanimous decision and extending his impressive win streak.
While the champion, `The Machine,` is anticipated to face Cory Sandhagen next, O`Malley`s path forward is uncertain. However, at least one potential challenger has emerged – another former opponent.
Aljamain Sterling Open to Rematch with Sean O`Malley, Claims He Was Only 50% in First Encounter
Aljamain Sterling, a longtime friend and training partner of the champion, was present to witness Dvalishvili`s victory over O`Malley.
`Funk Master` is no stranger to the bantamweight title or `Suga,` having held the 135-pound belt in a record-setting reign before O`Malley defeated him via knockout in 2023.
Sterling has since transitioned to the featherweight division, where he currently holds a 1-1 record.
Amid suggestions that O`Malley might move up to 145 pounds following his loss to Dvalishvili, Sterling indicated on X that he would be very interested in a rematch with the Montana native.
Let the former champ rest. But I would absolutely LOVE to show him what a healthy version of myself would do. He’s got great skills but I still know that was 50% version of myself.
What`s Next for Sean O`Malley?
For now, O`Malley is likely to take some time to rest and recover before making decisions about his next steps in his fighting career.
O`Malley`s record now includes this loss after his successful title defense against Marlon Vera at UFC 299 in Miami earlier this year. This is his first loss since claiming the title from Sterling.
Should `The Machine` continue his dominance in the bantamweight division, O`Malley may face a long and challenging route back to another title shot if he chooses to remain at 135 pounds.
In his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan inside the Octagon at UFC 316, O`Malley politely avoided discussing his future, instead offering congratulations to Dvalishvili and expressing gratitude to the fans.
O`Malley has previously addressed the possibility of moving up to featherweight, and during UFC 316 fight week, his coach stated that he believes `Suga` is capable of competing effectively against top fighters at 145 pounds.
Gareth Pendleton