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Sean O’Malley Makes Surprising UFC ‘Ducking’ Admission

UFC bantamweight contender Sean O’Malley has clarified his stance on facing rising challenger Payton Talbott, revealing that a potential title shot against Petr Yan would take priority. O’Malley, who previously dismissed Talbott’s call-out after the latter’s first-round TKO win over Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 332, now says his next fight hinges on Yan’s outcome at UFC 333.

The former bantamweight champion shared private Instagram voice messages with Yan, where O’Malley expressed hope Yan would defeat Merab Dvalishvili at the upcoming event, allowing O’Malley to pursue another rematch. Yan responded by inviting O’Malley to Abu Dhabi, hinting at a title opportunity if he wins.

O’Malley confirmed he would avoid Talbott if Yan retains his championship, prioritizing a shot at the belt instead. The decision hinges on Yan’s performance against Dvalishvili on October 24, with O’Malley’s path now split between a potential rematch with Yan or a clash with Talbott, depending on the result.

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