Sean O'Malley looking toward UFC bantamweight title shot

UFC bantamweight Sean O’Malley boasted that he will fight the winner of Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo after that pair finishes its battle for the bantamweight title on May 6 at UFC 288. 

During his “BrOMalley” podcast on Friday, O’Malley said the UFC has already granted him the next shot at the 135-pound title.

“My next fight will be f—ing huge,” O’Malley said. “Winner of Henry [Cejudo], [Aljamain Sterling]. I talked with the UFC [and]...I will fight the winner.”

O’Malley, known for his unorthodox striking style, has been outspoken about wanting an opportunity for the bantamweight title. Since making his UFC debut on Dana White’s Contender Series in July of 2017, the top-ranked fighter has gone 9-1-1 NC, with six of those wins coming by knockout. 

If he can continue to add to his impressive track record, O’Malley has the potential to develop into an elite UFC bantamweight. His most recent victory came when he defeated former champion Petr Yan as part of October's UFC 280 card -- a split decision victory that was controversial at the time and left analysts divided on the outcome. 

While O’Malley has only lost once inside the Octagon, he has yet to compete for UFC gold. Critics, who believe O’Malley has a lack of experience and question the quality of his wins, do not think he is ready for a title shot. 

Nonetheless, the 28-year-old’s resume and outspoken nature has skyrocketed his popularity in the UFC and positioned him at the front of the 135-pound division, with a potential title opportunity on the horizon. 

The Helena, Montana native has stated that his ultimate goal is to become one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts history. Whether he receives a shot at UFC immortality in his next fight or within his next couple of bouts, he is already a major fan favorite.