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Conor McGregor Reacts to Sean O'Malley’s Camp Ahead of UFC 316

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 9:26 PM ET

June is here, and the UFC calendar is about to explode with energy—starting with the much-hyped UFC 316. This card is stacked, but all eyes are on the main event, where fan-favorite Sean O’Malley steps back into the Octagon, chasing redemption. The stakes couldn’t be higher. After a unanimous decision loss in his last fight, O’Malley is looking to silence critics and reclaim his momentum. And just when you thought the drama couldn’t ramp up any more, a surprising show of respect emerged from none other than Conor McGregor—a fighter O’Malley hasn’t exactly seen eye to eye with in recent years.

At the UFC 316 media day, a moment caught attention. In a clip shared by mmafightingonsbn, O’Malley was asked about the McGregor vs. Nate Diaz 2 fight, which he had been rewatching for inspiration. Then came the curveball. A reporter revealed to O’Malley that McGregor had praised his approach to this fight, likening it to his own preparation for the legendary Diaz rematch.

'I’ve always taken inspiration from Conor fights,' said O’Malley. 'You know, I watch Conor fights probably more than—well, my fights more—but I’ve watched a lot of Conor fights.'

When the reporter added that McGregor was 'very complimentary,' O’Malley grinned:

'…I’ll take it.'

And when asked about their previously rocky relationship, his response was heartfelt:

'I’ll forever be, you know, a huge Conor fan.'

Their past beef is no secret. From subtle jabs on social media to O’Malley publicly calling out McGregor’s antics in interviews, the friction was real. McGregor, in turn, took dismissive swipes at O’Malley during their past exchanges.

But as UFC 316 looms, something seems to have shifted. Respect has been restored—almost unknowingly—from O’Malley’s side, showing genuine admiration even before he was aware of McGregor’s praise.

As Saturday approaches, UFC 316 isn’t just shaping up to be a banger inside the cage—it’s becoming a narrative of evolution, maturity, and mutual respect between two of the sport’s most flamboyant stars. Whether fireworks or finesse awaits, this one’s got heat written all over it.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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