Former two-division world champion Henry Cejudo wasted no time in throwing down the gauntlet to the new UFC bantamweight titleholder
Former two-division world champion Henry Cejudo wasted no time in throwing down the gauntlet to the new UFC bantamweight titleholder, Sean O’Malley after his impressive victory at UFC 292. O’Malley secured a second-round TKO against Aljamain Sterling stunning the MMA world and prompting discussions about potential challengers for the newly crowned champion.
With top-ranked contender Merab Dvalishvili sidelined due to surgery attention has turned to Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera as a potential opponent for O’Malley. The history between the two fighters adds intrigue to a potential rematch making it an enticing option for the promotion. However, Cejudo believes there’s only one man fit for the job himself.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Henry Cejudo made his intentions clear by suggesting that O’Malley isn’t the best in the world, especially when he’s not even the best in their city. Cejudo’s tweet read, “Congratulations p***y @SugaSeanMMA how can you say you are the best in the world. When you are not even the best in our city. @danawhite can’t give him Chito because he s**ks and if you give him Merat he’s only going to wrestle. Let’s run it in PHX.“
Cejudo’s call-out comes on the heels of his recent loss to O’Malley’s previous opponent, Aljamain Sterling in a fight that ended in under two rounds. Cejudo’s bid for a title shot is further complicated by the fact that ‘Chito’ Vera holds back-to-back wins in the division a feat that Cejudo hasn’t achieved since 2020. While his passion for a title shot is evident, Cejudo may need to prove himself against a top-ten contender before making a credible argument for a title opportunity.
O’Malley’s only loss inside the Octagon came at the hands of Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera at UFC 252 almost three years ago. A leg injury hindered O’Malley’s performance, ultimately leading to a first-round knockout loss. Since that defeat, O’Malley has been eager for a chance to avenge his loss and prove his skills in a rematch.
The prospect of O’Malley and Vera facing off again carries even more weight this time with UFC gold on the line. O’Malley’s victory over Sterling has catapulted him to the top of the bantamweight division making him an attractive target for challengers like Vera and Cejudo.
While Cejudo’s call-out adds an extra layer of drama to the bantamweight division the final decision rests with the UFC and its matchmakers. Fans can expect the promotion to consider all options carefully before determining the next contender for O’Malley’s newly won bantamweight title.
For more UFC news and updates
Read: UFC 292: Preview, Prediction, Fight Card, Venue, Where to Watch, and Tickets
Read: UFC 292 results: Sean O’Malley Claims UFC Bantamweight Title with stunning finish
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