UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley has made headlines by demanding an apology from former two-division champion Conor McGregor. The tension between the two fighters escalated after McGregor criticized O’Malley on social media, referencing O’Malley’s past suspension for using the prohibited substance ostarine. O’Malley, who has been vocal about his admiration for McGregor’s rise in the UFC, expressed his willingness to move past the feud if McGregor issues a public apology.
In an interview with MMA journalist Helen Yee, O’Malley stated, “I’m over it if Conor wants to message me and apologize for his wild [remarks]. You know, I’ve never said anything bad about Conor until he started to come out and talk sh*t about me. If he wants to apologize, then we can be boys, if not, I’m not really looking to [be] friends or anything. So I’m not too worried about it”.
Sean O’Malley Opens up on Jon Jones
Adding to the drama, O’Malley also stirred the pot by snubbing Jon Jones when asked about the best fighter in the UFC right now. Instead, he named current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, citing Jones’ infrequent fights over the past few years as the reason for his choice. “Probably Islam…I think Jon’s fought once in the last 4-5 years. Jon Jones is up there for greatest of all time, but right now who’s the greatest… I think it’s Islam,” O’Malley remarked.
I asked Sean O’Malley if he & Conor McGregor will ever be friends or cool one day? @SugaSeanMMA says he’s over it if @TheNotoriousMMA wants to message him and apologize. Full interview here: https://t.co/ROmrTjN14e pic.twitter.com/4XIWAkJC6W
— Helen Yee (@HelenYeeSports) August 24, 2024
Sean O’Malley’s comments have sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and fighters alike. While some support his candidness, others believe he is courting controversy to stay in the spotlight. Regardless, O’Malley remains focused on his upcoming title defense against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306 on September 14. The bout promises to be a thrilling clash, with O’Malley aiming to solidify his legacy in the bantamweight division.
As the UFC landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics between its top fighters remain as unpredictable as ever. Whether McGregor will respond to O’Malley’s demand for an apology or if Jones will address the snub remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Sean O’Malley is not shying away from making bold statements and backing them up in the octagon.
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