Following the loss, O’Malley took to social media to apologize to his fans, expressing regret for not living up to their expectations.
He tweeted, “Over promised under delivered. Sorry. Love you guys.” However, this apology was met with a surprising response from UFC veteran and former three-time title challenger, Chael Sonnen. Sonnen, known for his outspoken nature, rejected Sean O’Malley’s apology, stating, “You took a division that once didn’t exist and at another time was going to be dropped into the most watched division in the sport. You broke ALL TIME gate record and tried to win until the bitter end. Apology REJECTED. Wasn’t needed.”
You took a division that once didn’t exsist and at another time was going to be dropped into the most watched division in the sport. You broke ALL TIME gate record and tried to win until the bitter end. Apology REJECTED. Wasn’t needed. https://t.co/tTrUOkXfXV
— Chael Sonnen (@ChaelSonnen) September 15, 2024
What’s Next For Sean O’Malley?
Sean O’Malley’s defeat marks his second unsuccessful title defense, sending him back to the drawing board. His performance was deemed lackluster, with Dvalishvili dominating most of the fight. This loss has raised questions about O’Malley’s future in the bantamweight division and what steps he needs to take to reclaim his title.
Adding to the post-fight drama, former UFC champion Henry Cejudo, who has had a long-standing rivalry with O’Malley, was quick to comment on the situation. Cejudo took to social media, mocking O’Malley’s performance and challenging him to a future bout. He tweeted, “Merab found the formula to Sean! Let me at him next #UFC306” and followed up with, “From sugar to shit! 50-45 [Georgian flag]”.