Recently, UFC Bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley spoke about his unexpected feud with UFC star Conor McGregor and stressed that, despite the conflict, he continues to admire the former Lightweight champion. The conflict began in May when McGregor criticized boxer Ryan Garcia on social media for testing positive for the banned substance ostarine. In his scathing attack, the Irishman also implicated O’Malley, who had a similar violation in 2019.
O’Malley has no hard feelings for McGregor
Though McGregor later eased his stance during a live stream, expressing his liking for “Sugar” and admitting he was caught in the crosshairs of the Ryan Garcia controversy, the damage was already done. O’Malley confirmed that although he and Conor have not spoken directly, he remains a devoted fan of McGregor’s career and his contributions to the sport.
The UFC Bantamweight champion stated that McGregor regrets his social media outburst, noting that he eventually deleted the tweet. Despite the unjustified association with Garcia’s situation, Sean didn’t hold a grudge. O’Malley believes that McGregor realized what he said was stupid. Garcia missed weight and it made him mad about Sean, which didn’t make sense.
He still admires the former UFC champion
In his initial reaction to McGregor’s comments, “Sugar” expressed a desire to see McGregor lose to Michael Chandler in their upcoming UFC 303 clash. However, his admiration for Conor makes it difficult for him to truly support Chandler against the former UFC champion.
The idea of a future clash between McGregor and O’Malley remains speculative, with “The Notorious” dismissing the possibility by stating, “It wouldn’t happen in his wildest dreams.” Nevertheless, O’Malley is up for the challenge and acknowledges McGregor’s significant influence on his MMA career. He said, “I wouldn’t turn down a fight with Conor.”
With McGregor preparing for his return at UFC 303 and Sean O’Malley looking to defend his title against Merab Dvalishvili later this year, the prospect of a high-profile clash between the two remains an intriguing possibility for the future.
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