Sean O’Malley believes Petr Yan should not run it back with Merab Dvalishvili immediately after returning to the octagon following lower back surgery.
Yan vs. Dvalishvili 3 is expected to happen later this year, but this much-anticipated title rematch to complete their trilogy won’t be a part of the UFC White House Card.
Dvalishvili lost his title to Yan last year at UFC 323. However, for being an active champion, the UFC has promised the Georgian fighter a title rematch whenever he is ready.
While ‘The Machine’ is back in the gym, Yan recently had lower back surgery and is expected to be back in action after a couple of months.
Sean O’Malley Warns Petr Yan Against Facing Merab Dvalishvili
During a recent sit-down, former UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley advised his former opponent, Petr Yan, against fighting Merab Dvalishvili after returning to the octagon following lower back surgery.
Dvalishvili’s high-pressure wrestling-heavy style, constant takedown attempts, and relentless pressure could be too much for someone who just had lower back problems.
O’Malley added that he “sucks at wrestling” and wouldn’t shoot takedowns against Yan. He then called out ‘No Mercy’ to run it back with him instead, in a bout where both fighters would potentially stand and trade, something O’Malley loves doing and has an edge in.
“I want Petr Yan next. I hate the idea of Petr coming off back surgery and fighting Merab. You’re gonna fight Merab within a year after back surgery? It sounds like a terrible mistake. I’m not gonna go out there and try to shoot and wrestle him. Why would you fight Merab after back surgery when you can fight me? I suck at wrestling.”
Check out Sean O’Malley’s comments about Petr Yan below:
Sean O’Malley could be taking on Umar Nurmagomedov next
Sean O’Malley most recently snapped his two-fight losing skid by defeating Song Yadong at UFC 324. He has shown interest in locking horns with Cory Sandhagen next, only if the UFC pays him the same amount as a title fight.
Else, ‘Suga’ does not mind waiting for another title shot.
On the other hand, No. 2-ranked bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov’s manager recently revealed that discussions are ongoing for a potential fight with O’Malley. However, nothing has been finalized. He told Sport24:
“That’s what all sides are expressing interest in. We want the fight with Sean O’Malley. As I understand, O’Malley is not against it either and isn’t avoiding it. Logically, it makes sense. But there’s no confirmation yet, no dates or signed contracts. Still, it’s likely moving in that direction.”
Check out Umar Nurmagomedov’s manager’s comments below:
‘Suga,’ on the other hand, has shown zero interest in locking horns with Nurmagomedov.