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UFC legend says Sean O'Malley would 'light up' Payton Talbott

A potential UFC bantamweight showdown between Sean O’Malley and Payton Talbott has reignited after Talbott’s dominant first-round knockout of Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 332. The victory has sparked renewed calls for a matchup, with former UFC champion and commentator Daniel Cormier publicly advocating for the fight, praising Talbott’s callout and urging the promotion to make it happen.

O’Malley, however, has downplayed the idea, insisting any bout with Talbott would only materialize if it aligned with his long-term plans, including a potential path to the bantamweight title. Earlier reports suggested Talbott had been offered the fight at UFC Freedom 250, though it never materialized.

Meanwhile, ex-UFC Hall of Famer Henry Cejudo has thrown his support behind Talbott’s push for the matchup, adding further momentum to the debate over whether the two will finally face off in the cage.

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