UFC bantamweight fighter Sean O’Malley is set to open the main card at UFC 269 against Raulian Paiva. However, previously, ‘Suga’ had called out the former bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz for a slugfest. Later, the 27-year-old wanted to fight #8 from the bantamweight division, Pedro Munhoz.

Interestingly, all three men will fight on the same night. However, while ‘Suga’ will feature on the main card, Cruz vs Munhoz will take place in the prelims.

This gave a hard laugh to the 27-year-old, as both Cruz and Munhoz had previously denied a fight with him. In an interview with The Schmo, ‘Suga’ said, “He (Dominick Cruz) messed up.”

“I called out him and Pedro Munhoz and now they’re on the prelims. I guess it doesn’t really matter. They’re going to get paid the same, whether they’re on the main card or the prelims. I’m going to get paid the same whether I’m opening up the main card or the prelims.”

“So, as far as making money-wise, it doesn’t really matter. We’re getting paid the same. But for your ego, that’s got to hurt. You’re being talked about one of the best bantamweights ever and you’re on the prelims. I don’t even know if he’s headlining the prelims.”

ALSO READ: “Let’s Get Together and Support This Young Irish Fighter”- Conor McGregor Yet Again Shows His Humble Side in New Initiative

“Prelim Pedro vs. Dominick, it just makes sense down there. I haven’t talked to anybody that’s super excited for that fight. They’re both top 10, I’m pretty sure… Me and Paiva aren’t even ranked and we’re opening up the main card, so I think it just goes to show I’m the unranked champ.”

Who is Sean O’Malley fighting at UFC 269?

‘Suga’ is a product of Dana White’s Contender Series. He made his UFC debut in 2018 and won three straight fights. The 14-1 fighter has ten knockouts under his name.

Even though O’Malley has yet to be ranked in the top-15 of the bantamweight division, he has gained much popularity among the UFC fans for his unique fighting style and persona. He is currently on a two-fight undefeated streak T/KO streak in 2021.

He will look to make it three when he takes on Raulian Paiva in the main card of UFC 269. Paiva, who has two setbacks on his UFC resume, is currently on a three-fight undefeated streak.

Both O’Malley and Paiva are unranked on the UFC bantamweight roster. Hence, a win in this fight is important for both the combatants to cement their position in the division.

What are your thoughts on O’Malley’s words? What do you think of this fight? Let us know in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Five Times Jose Aldo Brutalized His Opponents Inside the Octagon