The stars of newly crowned bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley are on the rise. Coming off an impressive 2nd round TKO win over Aljamain Sterling, who most MMA pundits considered the bantamweight GOAT, Sean O’Malley is looking for serious contenders for his first title defense.

The champion even called out the fighter who gave him his first and only loss in the octagon, Marlon Vera. O’Malley, in the post-fight conference, hinted that he is doing Vera a favor for considering him as the next challenger. And now, O’Malley is advising Vera to approach their rematch with respect, or else it could impact the possibility of it taking place.

Sean O’Malley advises Vera

O’Malley recently appeared on the “TimboSugarShow” podcast and highlighted Vera’s recent antics. The bantamweight champion addressed Marlon Vera’s approach to the potential rematch and said, “You need to f*cking settle down, or I’ll pick Henry Cejudo.”

Highlighting his power to choose the opponent strategically as a champion, O’Malley said, “And don’t think that I don’t have the power to f*cking pick who I want to fight right now.”

O’Malley also stated that he is open to other options, underscoring that Vera is not the only option for his first title defense. The bantamweight champion said, “I’ll go box Gervonta (Davis). I’ll fight Henry. I’ll wait for Cory. You need to chill out with your f*cking ugly a*s outfits.”

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When Henry Cejudo came across O’Malley’s view on Vera and him being a contender option, Henry commented, “You going to let him talk to you like that @chitoveraufc,” provoking Vera to respond and defend himself.

O’Malley’s history with Henry Cejudo

Cejudo and O’Malley have never met in the octagon, however, they have both been exchanging barbs on social media for years. In his last fight, Henry fought Aljamain Sterling for the bantamweight title and lost via split decision. Compared to Vera, Cejudo has a lot of star power. However, with Vera (21-8-1 MMA, 15-7 UFC) being the only person who handed Sean his first loss, that too via a first-round TKO, the fight comes with inbuilt drama, which fans like.

Meanwhile, O’Malley (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) has highlighted his willingness to return to the octagon for UFC 296, scheduled on December 16th. Despite grappling with various injuries during his preparation for the Sterling fight, O’Malley has expressed confidence in his ability to make a comeback within four months, provided the circumstances align appropriately.

Who do you want Sean O’Malley to fight in his first title defense? Comment below.

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