Aljamain Sterling sarcastically roasts PPV star Sean O’Malley for title rematch 

Former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling mocks Sean O'Malley after UFC gave him a title rematch despite having a weak resume.

Aljamain Sterling sarcastically roasts PPV star Sean O’Malley for title rematch 

Aljamain Sterling isn't a fan of Sean O'Malley getting a title rematch (via Imago)

Sean O’Malley lost his title to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306 in a dominant five-round decision last year. Despite wanting an immediate rematch, O’Malley was bypassed as undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov gained momentum and entered the championship conversation instead. O’Malley is now getting another title opportunity, though critics argue it’s unearned and influenced by popularity. 

Recently, UFC CEO Dana White officially announced that O’Malley would face Dvalishvili in the main event of UFC 316. Despite being the rematch, many fans are uninterested in the rematch, expressing a desire for a fresh contender instead. Amid the backlash, former champion Aljamain Sterling added fuel to the fire by mocking O’Malley in a post on X.

I understand the business model better than most, and O’Malley is a really exciting guy that has beaten many top five contenders. So I think he rightfully deserves it after all the ranked names he has beaten.

Aljamain Sterling via X 

Fans noticed the sarcasm in Sterling’s post and asked him to explain, which he did with a funny two-sided reply. Sterling was the man O’Malley brutally knocked out at UFC 292 to win the UFC bantamweight title. Despite his win, many questioned O’Malley’s title run, claiming he avoided real contenders and was pushed based on marketability alone. 

Before earning his title shot, ‘Suga’ defeated Petr Yan in a highly controversial decision that divided fans and analysts alike. Some bouts prior to that, he suffered a TKO loss to Marlon Vera, halting his undefeated streak. O’Malley’s only dominant wins came against unranked opponents, leading critics to question the legitimacy of his rise in the bantamweight division.

Hence, proving Sterling’s point and creating a hilarious discourse among fight fans on X, the featherweight fighter’s comments quickly gained attention. Aljo is also a very close friend to the current champion Merab Dvalishvili and backed the fighter at UFC 306. Going into the rematch, the fighter continues to mock O’Malley while proudly supporting his longtime teammate and close friend.

Aljamain Sterling reacts to Sean O’Malley’s latest claims 

Sean O’Malley is fully locked in for his rematch with Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 316, aiming for redemption. Following a surgery last year, he eliminated distractions like social media to focus entirely on reclaiming the UFC bantamweight title he once held. O’Malley’s coach, Tim Welch, admits the ‘Machine’ is dangerous but believes O’Malley’s precise striking gives him a strong chance to win.

Aljamain Sterling mocks Sean O'Malley latest claims
Aljamain Sterling mocks Sean O’Malley latest claims (via Imago)

In a recent podcast, O’Malley talked about suffering from a groin injury, which affected his performance at UFC 306. However, this time, he is prepared and has taken all the measures to stay in optimum shape. After the video went viral, Aljamain Sterling reacted to it and made a sneaky remark about it. 

It’s just funny that everyone made such a big thing, ‘Oh he’s changing his life. He’s giving up the Mary Jane.’ I’m like, those are the things that technically made you who you are and a champion. So, for someone to tell me to go cold turkey, no more drinking, no edibles. I’m gonna look at them like, ‘This is what got me here, why would I stop?’

Aljamain Sterling via his YouTube channel 

Merab Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure and cardio have made him one of the most dominant bantamweights in recent memory. Since capturing the title, he has continued his unbeaten streak, overwhelming opponents with volume and takedowns. His win over Sean O’Malley solidified his place at the top of the division and has also made a new fan base. 

Fans admire his grind-heavy style and unwavering determination to remain champion. Backed by teammate Sterling, Dvalishvili’s confidence and momentum seem unstoppable heading into his next title defense. For many fans, he will be favorite to win, but, inside that octagon anything is possible.

Related: Aljamain Sterling wife: Who is the UFC star’s partner?