Key Takeaways:
– UFC star Sean O’Malley prefers the feel of traditional arenas over the high-tech Las Vegas Sphere for future fights.
– The Sphere event broke UFC gate records, pulling in $23 million, but O’Malley found the vibe different from traditional venues.
– Despite a recent title loss, O’Malley is already eyeing a rematch against Merab Dvalishvili.
– O’Malley, despite fighting with a torn labrum, believes he’s still the better fighter and plans a comeback for March or April.
O’Malley’s Take on the Las Vegas Sphere
Following the roaring success of the UFC’s inaugural event at the cutting-edge Sphere in Las Vegas, bantamweight star Sean O’Malley has made his preference clear. Despite the event’s mind-boggling gate collections of $23 million, the UFC champion finds the atmosphere of a regular arena more fitting for the high-energy UFC fights.
On the ‘Join the Lobby’ podcast, O’Malley opened up about his experience at the Sphere. It wasn’t about the record-breaking numbers or the immersive visuals of the hi-tech venue. According to him, the feel of a traditional arena matches the pulsating energy of a UFC fight much better.
O’Malley Talks Post-Sphere Fight
The UFC pulled out all the stops to ensure the Sphere’s first event would leave the sports universe speechless. However, this was no cheap feat. UFC head Dana White disclosed his team dished out over $20 million to ensure the event’s success. As a result, this is likely to be a one-off event for UFC in the sphere.
Despite losing his title, O’Malley perceives the setback as an opportunity for rest and recovery. He confessed of dealing with recurring health issues during this time. Away from the ring for a while now, the ‘Suga’ looks forward to settling scores with Merab Dvalishvili upon his return.
O’Malley Eager for a Rematch
Despite having a rather short stint as the champion, the 29-year-old UFC star eyes a rematch against Dvalishvili at the earliest. Their fight at UFC 306 did not go in O’Malley’s favor, resulting in a unanimous decision loss. However, O’Malley is sure of his strong comeback.
O’Malley, who had fought with a torn labrum, revealed the injury impacted his performance. Regardless, he bears no regret for deciding to not pull out of the fight. Disappointed about the fight’s outcome, O’Malley is confident he inflicted more damage in the later rounds.
The UFC star has now set his sights for a comeback around March or April. He strongly believes he could reclaim his belt and re-establish his superiority in the bantamweight division.
In addition to his comeback plans, O’Malley hinted at his competitor Dvalishvili’s apprehensions about facing rising contender Umar Nurmagomedov. This further suggests that Dvalishvili might be opting for a rematch with O’Malley instead.
In Conclusion
Sean O’Malley may have lost his recent title, but his motivation remains unscathed. The UFC superstar has his eyes set on a rematch with Merab Dvalishvili, as well as reclaiming his belt. Despite the magnificent show at the Las Vegas Sphere, O’Malley admits his preference for the feel of traditional arenas for future fights. It may not be long before we see ‘Suga’ back in the ring, ready to prove he’s still at the top of his game.