Ilia Topuria, the reigning UFC featherweight champion, recently put an end to speculation about a potential clash with bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley. While fans have eagerly discussed the possibility of a champion vs. champion bout, Topuria firmly believes it doesn’t make much sense. In his view, he stands head and shoulders above O’Malley.
In an interview with French outlet La Seur, Ilia Topuria expressed his thoughts on a potential showdown with “Suga” Sean O’Malley. His words were clear and unapologetic:
“I can do with him [O’Malley] whatever I want. I can just play with him. Like, how [does] he want me to finish him? That’s like the same question I ask all the guys that I’m facing. I’m like, ‘Just tell me, how [do] you want me to finish you?’ And I could do that…He’s a world champion, I respect him, but he has nothing to do with me.”
Topuria’s confidence shines through as he dismisses the idea of a competitive bout against O’Malley. His belief in his abilities is unwavering, and he sees no challenge in facing the bantamweight champion.
Ilia Topuria Praises Sean O’Malley
Despite his dismissive stance, Topuria isn’t blind to O’Malley’s accomplishments. In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, he praised the rising star:
“I’m impressed [with O’Malley]. He’s doing a great, amazing job. He’s becoming bigger and bigger in the sport. He’s a big star in the United States. Even as a fighter, I like his fight style too. I like his movements. Everything he does, he’s a showman, right? I like him, he’s doing a great job.”
Ilia Topuria’s respect for O’Malley’s ascent in the MMA world is evident, even if he doesn’t see a competitive fight between them. Perhaps someday their paths will cross, but for now, Topuria remains focused on his own championship reign.
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