UFC legend Chael Sonnen suggests that Sean O’Malley’s upcoming bout at UFC 316 is far more significant than merely a chance to regain the bantamweight title or seek retribution. O`Malley, previously holding the championship in the 135lb division, is scheduled to face Merab Dvalishvili in the main event on Saturday night. This encounter serves as a rematch following O`Malley`s title loss to the Georgian fighter back in September. The decision to grant O`Malley an immediate rematch has been a point of contention among some, who believed he should have competed in another fight beforehand.
Despite opinions on the rematch`s timing, Sonnen posits that this fight features generational talents vying for the ultimate distinction: the greatest bantamweight in UFC history. Sonnen believes this title currently belongs to Dvalishvili. He argues that if O`Malley secures a victory, given that both athletes are arguably in their prime careers, this coveted GOAT status would rightfully transfer to “Sugar” Sean.
Chael Sonnen: The Winner Becomes the Bantamweight GOAT
Sean O`Malley experienced a rapid ascent through the UFC`s bantamweight division, culminating in his title win. However, his momentum was halted by the loss to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306. Merab Dvalishvili, meanwhile, has assembled a formidable record marked by numerous high-profile wins.
In a recent online video, Chael Sonnen detailed his reasoning behind the immense stakes of this rematch. He emphasized the historical weight of the fight, stating:
They are fighting for ‘greatest 135-pounder of all time just so you know. Merab off the top of my head I can name four world champions he beat, not looking it up. I can tell you about Jose Aldo, I can tell you about Petr Yan, I can tell you about Sean O’Malley and… Henry Cejudo. Four world champions, you’ve got to understand when that’s the streak that never gets interrupted where you’ve won ten or eleven with four world champions along the way. Imagine he had the belt way back, he would have defeated three world champions and been on a seven-fight win streak with the belt. These guys really are fighting for the best 135-pounder ever, I think. I think that because I think that that’s Merab. Jon Anik, the voice of the octagon, told us that it’s Merab.
Sonnen concluded with conviction that the victor will lay claim to being the division`s all-time best, reiterating his belief that Dvalishvili currently holds that position and mentioning that UFC commentator Jon Anik appears to share this view.
Sean O`Malley Believes He is Entering His Career Prime
Since losing his world title in September, Sean O’Malley has navigated several significant life events. He celebrated his 30th birthday in October and, just last month, welcomed his second child with his wife Danya. Alongside these personal milestones, O’Malley has implemented substantial lifestyle discipline, notably refraining from both social media and marijuana use.
O`Malley conveyed strong confidence that these life changes and dedicated training will lead to his most impressive performance yet. Speaking to the media at UFC 316 fight week, O`Malley shared his perspective:
I’m 30 right now and we haven’t got to see me in my prime… This might be the first fight in my prime but I want to stick around as long as possible, longevity is on my mind every day.
Gareth Pendleton