A Future Rematch in Sight? What’s Next for Sterling and O’Malley After UFC 292

August 23, 2023
From: Spartacus

In a contest that delivered both spectacle and drama, the UFC 292 showdown between Sean O’Malley and Aljamain Sterling was a defining moment in the MMA world. Taking place in the electrifying ambience of Boston’s TD Garden, this championship bout served as an unmistakable validation for O’Malley’s rising stardom. The young fighter, who initially shot to prominence through Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS), achieved a crowning moment as he claimed the UFC bantamweight title in an astonishing fashion.

For those closely following the sport, O’Malley has long been hailed as the next big thing in MMA. After his win, his reputation has skyrocketed, solidifying his spot not just as a contender, but as a show-stopping superstar in the UFC. His fanbase, already devout and ever-expanding, found their loyalty justly rewarded when O’Malley exhibited a masterful performance. His fight strategy was nothing short of brilliant: entice Sterling into his striking domain and then land a counter right hand that would send anyone crashing onto the canvas.

With the world watching, O’Malley didn’t miss a beat in embracing the limelight. After the win, he humorously jibed at Sterling, who had previously predicted a second-round TKO victory over O’Malley, saying: “This motherf**ker predicted it the whole time. This motherf**ker knew!” 

Not to be overlooked is the fascinating subplot involving Henry Cejudo, a former two-division UFC champion. Sterling had consulted Cejudo for tactical insights before facing O’Malley. Cejudo had previously fought Sterling and seemed to have a keen understanding of what Sterling might face. Offering his strategic wisdom, Cejudo admonished, “Defence is No. 1, hands up and close the distance right away.” He went on to reveal more: “Then Saturday I’m just thinking I really want to know if Aljamain’s gonna really bite into the fakes of Sean O’Malley. Now this is Saturday, ‘Hey, one more thing. Don’t react to his fakes. He starts his game like that. If you go away he starts to figure out his distance. Good luck, break a nail.’ Did Aljamain do any of that? No.”

Before the main event, the narrative surrounding Aljamain Sterling was that of a reigning champion contemplating his next chess move. Sterling had openly mused about this bout possibly being his swan song in the bantamweight division, eyeing a future in the featherweight category. Those ambitions, however, were thrown into disarray when O’Malley’s right counter sent him spiralling downward. In a matter of moments, his championship dreams and future plans were eclipsed by O’Malley’s rising star.

Yet, in the wake of this defeat, Sterling is far from beaten. He took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to channel his inner ‘Terminator,’ promising a comeback with the words, “Rematch 2024. Game of inches. I’ll be back.”

At the post-fight press conference, Sterling was introspective and candid about his loss. “He stayed disciplined to his game plan, and I kind of let trying to be a little bit more of an exciting style for the fans play a factor,” Sterling admitted. Offering further insight, he explained, “I made the mistake, Sean capitalised. I paid for it.”

What we witnessed at UFC 292 was a transformative moment in the sport. Sean O’Malley has proven that he’s more than just hype; he’s a legitimate force to be reckoned with, a charismatic fighter whose talents extend beyond his flashy persona. And as for Aljamain Sterling, he remains a compelling figure in the bantamweight landscape, a seasoned veteran still capable of reclaiming his lost glory.

But if one thing is abundantly clear, it’s that this saga is far from over. If you’re an MMA fan, mark your calendars for 2024, when these two titans are poised to clash again in what promises to be another epic encounter. The stage is set, the characters are in place, and the narrative is richer than ever. The only thing left to do? Sit back and watch as the next chapters of their storied rivalry unfold.

Related Posts
ONE Friday Fights 37 Full Card

The much-anticipated ONE Friday Fights 37 is all set to storm the world-renowned Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. Scheduled for October 20, this epic showdown in the heart of Asia promises unparalleled action, stunning technique, and a lot of Read more

UFC 287: Masvidal vs Burns and Adesanya vs Pereira 2 Set to Heat Up Miami

Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal discussed his fight with Gilbert "Durinho" Burns, scheduled for UFC 287 in Miami, Florida, with MMA addict. Gilbert Burns' face will be painted like Vincent Van Gogh's work at UFC 287 in Miami, according to Jorge Masvidal. Read more

Usyk Backs Fury to Emerge Victorious in Showdown with Ngannou

In the grandeur of Saudi Arabia's vast desert landscape, an unparalleled boxing encounter is on the horizon, drawing attention from every corner of the world. Tyson 'The Gypsy King' Fury, widely regarded as boxing royalty, prepares to face Francis 'The Read more

Itsuki Hirata faces weigh-in worries ahead of ONE Fight Night 8

Itsuki Hirata acknowledges that attempting to gain weight causes her a lot of worry. As she works to lose weight in preparation for her return to the circle this Friday night, Itsuki Hirata acknowledges that she is experiencing a lot Read more


app banner cta
website banner cta


Share: