Dana White's darling may be at a dead end in the UFC, says commentator

Dana White at a press conference after the UFC 290. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube

As much as he has enjoyed Dana White's 'blessing' since the beginning of his career in the world's biggest MMA event, Sean O'Malley's UFC career may be approaching a crossroads. At least, that's what he believes. Chael Sonnen. According to the former fighter, if the former bantamweight champion (up to 61,2 kg.) is defeated by Merab Dvalishvili for the second time, his history in the category could come to an end.

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“Sean O’Malley wins this fight or possibly never fights at bantamweight again. This will be Sean’s last chance to fight Merab. They’re not going to do a part 3. And if he can’t beat Merab, he’ll have to move up to featherweight. Sean O’Malley is the biggest star in our sport. When the biggest star has to start worrying about job security, you’ve got something interesting,” Sonnen said in an interview with ‘The Schmo' this Wednesday (28).

Chael Sonnen believes this will be Sean O'Malley's last shot at the title—otherwise, he'll never fight at 135 again.

"Sean O'Malley wins this fight or quite possibly never fights again at 135. This will be Sean's last shot at Merab. They're not gonna do a part 3. And if he… pic.twitter.com/r1a0W4qyeQ

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 28, 2025

Sean O'Malley hasn't fought in the UFC since September

Sean O'Malley is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @sugasean

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One of the most popular figures in Ultimate, especially among the younger audience, Sean O' Malley was completely dominated by Merab Dvalishvili in the main fight of UFC on the Sphere, in September of last year. After the defeat, the American underwent hip surgery and will return to the octagon for the rematch in the main fight of the next numbered event, on June 7th.