Cory Sandhagen Wants Sean O’Malley Superfight at White House After Years of Waiting

Cory Sandhagen calls out Sean O'Malley for a potential superfight at UFC White House after a failed title shot at UFC 320.

Cory Sandhagen Wants Sean O’Malley Superfight at White House After Years of Waiting

Cory Sandhagen calls out Sean O'Malley for UFC White House (via Instagram, X)

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Cory Sandhagen has maintained a consistent presence near the top of the bantamweight rankings, building a record that showcases a combination of technical striking and strategic versatility. His performances have allowed him to remain a significant contender for high-stakes matchups. Sandhagen recently called out Sean O’Malley for such a matchup at the UFC White House event in 2026.

The event is one of the most significant and anticipated events of the following year, with fighters from every division rallying to secure a spot. The historical aspect of the venue is sure to gain massive attention from all around the world, with UFC CEO Dana White working seamlessly to provide an unforgettable card. The MMA community has also emphasized the importance of American fighters on the card.

The two teased a potential matchup back in 2023 after Sandhagen called out O’Malley for fighting low-ranked contenders and securing a title fight due to his star power. However, the fight failed to materialize after O’Malley won the championship at UFC 292. The ‘Sandman’ recently called out O’Malley for a superfight at the White House on The Ariel Helwani Show.

I think that me and O’Malley has to happen… There’s one fight in the division that people are really calling for over and over and over again, & it’s me and O’Malley. If you threw us on that White House card, I think that would be such a gigantic fight.

Cory Sandhagen via The Ariel Helwani Show

Ariel Helwani also asked Sandhagen if the White House event was the priority for a bout against O’Malley. However, the Colorado native believed that the fight was of paramount importance to him regardless of the location. ‘Suga’ has long been one of the UFC’s major audience pullers due to his flashy striking and personality that have amassed a massive fan following.

Sandhagen is coming off a loss against bantamweight kingpin Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 320, which pushed him down from title contention. However, he has repeatedly proven his durability and striking prowess by bouncing back from losses. Sandhagen had also protested when O’Malley got an immediate title rematch after losing it to Dvalishvili at UFC 306.

The UFC White House event is shaping up to be one of the biggest cards in UFC history, with names such as Conor McGregor and Jon Jones expected to appear. However, Dana White has revealed that the matchmaking for the card will not start till February 2026. It remains to be seen if Sean O’Malley finally accepts Cory Sandhagen’s request to deliver a striking masterclass fight at the UFC White House.

Cory Sandhagen trains with ONE Championship superstar

Cory Sandhagen currently trains out of Elevation Fight Team in Denver, Colorado, one of the most established gyms in the United States known for producing elite-level UFC talent. The gym has housed several top contenders and champions across multiple weight classes, providing Sandhagen access to high-caliber training partners and experienced coaches.

Cory Sandhagen training with Superlek
Cory Sandhagen training with Superlek (via X)

In addition to his regular training camp, Sandhagen has sought to expand his striking proficiency by working with Superlek Kiatmoo9, a former two-weight Lumpinee Stadium champion and the reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing champion. Known for his precise technique and dominance in Muay Thai, Superlek’s influence introduces world-class kickboxing principles into Sandhagen’s preparation.

Superlek is one of the best kickboxers, and he cemented his status after defeating Rodtang Jitmuangnon in their superfight in 2023. By combining the resources of a premier MMA gym with input from one of the world’s best kickboxers, Sandhagen continues to evolve as a well-rounded competitor.

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