O’Malley is set to headline the UFC 306 card at the Sphere in Las Vegas.
With a production cost of over $20 million, UFC President Dana White has already called this event a “one-time spectacle.”
As O’Malley gears up for this monumental fight, he knows the spotlight is firmly on him. Ever since his breakout on Dana White’s Contender Series, O’Malley’s fanbase has grown exponentially, making him one of the UFC’s most recognizable faces.
McGregor, meanwhile, hasn’t stepped into the cage since shattering his leg over three years ago. A potential 2025 return has been teased, but nothing is set in stone. Though O’Malley acknowledges McGregor’s current star power, he believes one more loss will open the door for a new UFC king.
“I think I’m very close,” O’Malley said during UFC 306 media day. “Conor’s got one more big fight left, the question is—can he beat [Michael] Chandler? But if Conor loses, I’m the No. 1.”
McGregor’s recent record isn’t helping his case. With just one win in his last four fights and the clock ticking at 36 years old, another defeat could mark the end of his reign.
“If he loses again, it’s like six losses in a row,” O’Malley added. “It’s got to die down eventually. If he loses, I’m there—I’m the guy.”
O’Malley pointed out the major difference between him and McGregor—activity. Since 2016, McGregor has fought just four times, while O’Malley has racked up 16 bouts, including three title fights in the past 13 months.
“I bring fights. I fight often,” O’Malley said. “Conor was sharp on the mic, had some solid performances, but I’m consistent. I’m fighting a lot. That’s what separates us.”
The UFC bantamweight champion aims to prove his point this Saturday when he defends his title against Merab Dvalishvili. O’Malley, known for his electric performances, has already predicted a knockout.
“It could be in the first, second, third, or fifth. But I’m leaning towards the second,” O’Malley declared.
If Sean O’Malley delivers on his promise, UFC 306 might just mark the passing of the torch.