Sean O’Malley vs Aiemann Zahabi Set for Historic White House Card

O’Malley Campaigned for the Opportunity

Just weeks ago, O’Malley believed he had been left off the card. The outspoken star said he actively pushed the UFC for a spot on the event, even telling the promotion he would fight anyone to be part of the historic show. “I told the UFC I would love to fight at the White House. I will fight anybody at the White House,” O’Malley said.

He even joked about fighting champions in other divisions, saying he would face fighters like Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev, or even retired legend Khabib Nurmagomedov just for the chance to compete on the card. For O’Malley, the appeal is bigger than the opponent. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity… millions of people who might have never watched a fight could see me.”

Zahabi Brings Momentum

Zahabi (14-2 MMA, 8-2 UFC) enters the bout riding a seven-fight win streak, making him one of the hottest fighters in the bantamweight division. Originally, many fans expected O’Malley to face top contender Cory Sandhagen after O’Malley rebounded from a loss with a win over Song Yadong at UFC 324.

Instead, he’ll take on Zahabi a striker known for durability and a willingness to stand and trade. O’Malley believes that style will produce fireworks. “He’s a dog. He brings the fight… he’s tough as f--- and hard to put away.”

A Unique Walk to the Octagon

According to O’Malley, the fighters on the card may take a ceremonial walk from the Oval Office onto the White House lawn before entering the Octagon an idea he admitted feels surreal. “It’s honestly hard to even wrap your head around. It doesn’t even feel like reality.”