Kicking off the main card at UFC 264 was a showdown in the bantamweight division between newcomer Kris Moutinho (9-5) and “Suga” Sean O’Malley (14-1). First and foremost, I truly don’t believe there was a loser in this fight.
Yes, O’Malley completely dominated and put on a masterclass on Saturday night. However, Kris Moutinho showed insane heart and made good on his promise for the two of the to get Fight of The Night.
Moutinho took everything O’Malley threw at him and kept coming. Herb Dean made the unfortunate call to stop the fight in the third, but pretty much everyone believes that Moutinho should have been given the last 30 seconds to finish the fight.
Nevertheless, O’Malley shined at UFC 264. Moutinho was a replacement opponent, and O’Malley was taking a risk in fighting a relative unknown. His role was to completely dominate the fight and that’s what he did.
The Suga Show was on fall display. His striking was sensational, his counters were perfect, and as always, he was quite the showman. With the win, O’Malley advanced to 6-1 in the UFC with the lone loss coming against Chito Vera (17-7-1).
What’s next after UFC 264?
After the UFC 264 contest ended, O’Malley had a few names that he called out. He called out Dominick Cruz, Rob Font, Cody Garbrandt, and Petr Yan. In reality, I’m not sure any of those guys are going to be options for O’Malley.
Font is likely going to be in a title eliminator next which rules him out. Cody Garbrandt’s manager announced he’s moving to 125 pounds so he’s out. Petr Yan is fighting for the UFC title next so he’s out.
Dominick Cruz could be an option, but the former UFC champion is seeking someone higher in the rankings. In reality, I don’t think O’Malley will get anyone that he called out after the fight on Saturday night.
So, who should star in The Suga Show next? Well, Cody Garbrandt’s agent had a fantastic suggestion about another one of his clients. Ali Abdelaziz suggested that Sean O’Malley fights former UFC champion Frankie Edgar (24-9-1) next.
Personally, I love that fight for O’Malley. It would be a huge test and it would really show just where The Suga Show is at. Edgar just fought in a title eliminator against Cory Sandhagen and fell short. He’s ranked seventh and would be the perfect step up.
If not Edgar, I really wouldn’t mind seeing the rematch with Chito Vera. Vera is ranked 13th and there first fight did cast some doubt based on the way it ended. Why not have the two men run things back so we can all get some closure with that one.
Sound Off: Who should Sean O’Malley fight next?