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“He Will Be a Big Star”: Comparing Sean O’Malley to Conor McGregor, Dana White Predicts a Bright Future for the Bantamweight Star Ahead of UFC 292 Fight Against Aljamain Sterling

Published 08/18/2023, 1:25 AM EDT

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Dana White really said that? Ever since the UFC announced the UFC 292 PPV card, fans and the MMA community were abuzz with opinions and speculations. Especially the headliner Bantamweight title clash between prodigious Sean O’Malley and division champ Aljamain Sterling has sent fans into a frenzy. But what many fans don’t know is that ‘The Sugar’ has been the UFC head honcho’s trump card for rallying young fans into the sport.

Flashback to Dana White’s Contender Series 2, when O’Malley took on Alfred Khashakyan. After dismantling his opponent with a first-round KO, ‘Sugar’ earned himself a UFC contract. And since then, things have never been the same for the Bantamweight prodigy. But what White recently said about the #2 Bantamweight has struck a chord with fans. So, what is the UFC head honcho’s prophecy about ‘Sugar’? Let’s find out!

Dana White reminisces on ‘Sugar’s unbelievable Contender Series debut

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In a candid conversation with TMZ Sports, Dana White delved into his thoughts on Sean O’Malley and the potential he holds for the UFC. When asked about O’Malley’s unique personality and its impact on the sport, White couldn’t help but express his excitement. He recounted O’Malley’s explosive debut on the Contender Series and the unforgettable knockout that marked his entry. The UFC head honcho reminisced, “Yeah – Sean O’Malley first under the scene – on the show that I was just talking about – the Contender Series. It was an unbelievable knockout at that time.”

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The moment was so memorable that even Snoop Dogg, who was commentating at the time, went wild in response to O’Malley’s victory. This victory, White pointed out, was the turning point that catapulted O’Malley into the realm of stardom within the UFC. White further added, “We had Snoop Dogg doing the commentary. He went crazy when O’Malley won and you know O’Malley became a star for us – and this guy has unbelievable knockout power.”

White draws an intriguing parallel between Sean O’Malley and Conor McGregor

What truly sets ‘Sugar’ apart is his electrifying knockout power and the magnetic charm that draws in the younger demographic of fans. Likewise, White emphasized the parallels between O’Malley’s appeal and that of the iconic former UFC champ Conor McGregor. The #2 Bantamweight’s unique persona and engaging fighting style have endeared him to a fanbase that resonates with the same fervor as they do for McGregor.

Read More: Dustin Poirier Gives His Official Prediction for Sean O’Malley vs. Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292

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In the same vein, the UFC President declared, “The young demographic[fans] love him like they love McGregor. If he could win a world title on Saturday night – he will be a big star!”

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The spotlight on Sean O’Malley is only intensifying as UFC 292 approaches. White’s prediction for the young fighter is clear and compelling. If O’Malley secures a victory and claims the world title in the Bantamweight division on Saturday night, he could ascend to the status of a bona fide superstar. 

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Dana White’s words carry weight, considering his history of recognizing potential and fostering talent. The stage is set, and the MMA world is watching with bated breath to witness whether Sean ‘Sugar’ O’Malley can fulfill Dana White’s prophecy and become the big star he envisions. What do you think? Will ‘Sugar’ make a major upset on his first title shot? Drop your thoughts below in the comments!

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Written by:

Ashish Tiwari

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Ashish is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. With an unwavering love for the sport, he immerses himself in the thrilling world of MMA, capturing the essence of each high-octane fight and delving into the intricacies of a fighter's strategy. His in-depth knowledge and analytical approach enable him to provide unique insights into the sport.
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Edited by:

Kratika Vajpayee