Main Story: Sean O’Malley expects to challenge Petr Yan next for the UFC bantamweight title after Yan’s win over Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333. O’Malley said Daniel Cormier privately agreed he should get the next shot, easing O’Malley’s past suspicions that the commentator was biased against him. He called the missed post-fight opportunity to set up the bout a UFC oversight, not a reason for concern.

By the Numbers
  • O’Malley has won 2 straight fights since his last title loss.
  • He and Yan have fought once; Yan lost a close split decision in October 2023.
  • O’Malley, 32, beat Song Yadong by decision in January and knocked out Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Freedom 250.
Yes, But

O’Malley said he once felt Cormier wanted to see him lose, but now doubts that was truly the case and recognizes that live commentary is difficult. He also said Yan isn’t afraid of him, though he believes Yan knows the matchup would be challenging.

State of Play
  • Yan is champion after defeating Dvalishvili in their trilogy bout.
  • O’Malley is confident he’s next, but the UFC has not formally announced the title fight.
  • Yan had back surgery in early 2026, a factor that could affect timing.
What’s Next

O’Malley expects the UFC to book a rematch with Yan, which he says is both the biggest fight and the logical next matchup. The timing will depend in part on Yan’s recovery.

Bottom Line

O’Malley sees the title shot as his to lose: Yan’s victory cleared the path, while a rematch would give both fighters a chance to settle the result of their close first bout.