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Petr Yan has his sights set on redemption against Sean O'Malley, should his next opportunity not include a UFC title shot. Yan (18-5), who recently secured a unanimous decision win over Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC Fight Night 248, is eager to continue his resurgence in the bantamweight division.
While UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has shown interest in defending his belt against Yan, the UFC is reportedly leaning toward Umar Nurmagomedov as the next title contender. If this plan materializes, Yan wants another crack at O'Malley, who handed him a controversial split-decision loss in a Fight of the Night clash at UFC 280 in 2022.
Yan shared his thoughts during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show:
“You know, if (Nurmagomedov title shot) is going to happen, I would lean towards a rematch with Sean O’Malley, but I don’t know what’s going on with him. He’s out for nine to 12 months, so maybe he got pregnant.”
O'Malley (18-2), the former bantamweight champion, has been sidelined following surgery for a torn labrum in his left hip after losing his title to Dvalishvili at UFC 306. Despite Yan’s eagerness for the rematch, O'Malley hinted on social media that his return could come in early Q2 of 2024, likely in a title bout against Dvalishvili.
For Yan, however, the rematch against O'Malley is more than just settling a score—it’s about proving his superiority over five full rounds.
“I really want five rounds,” Yan stated. “I believe it should be a good main event or a featured bout on some big event. I think five rounds and it will be very interesting if it’s going to happen.”
As Yan waits for the UFC to finalize its plans, his path forward remains uncertain. Whether it’s a title shot or a second meeting with O’Malley, the former bantamweight champion is determined to keep climbing back to the top.
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