Sean O'Malley doubtful about taking backup fighter spot for Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo title fight
Top bantamweight contender Sean O'Malley is uncertain about accepting the role of backup fighter for the upcoming title fight between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo.
During a recent episode of his BrOMalley Show on YouTube, 'Sugar' expressed his reservations about taking on such a position. While acknowledging that he could technically take on the role for the right amount of money, the 28-year-old explained that he is hesitant due to the difficulty of weight cuts and the potential risks associated with not making weight. He also noted that he was financially secure and did not necessarily need additional compensation.
The No.1 ranked bantamweight contender said:
"Tricky spot to be in here. Well, I wouldn't say tricky either... leave me in a position, you know. Do I want to be a backup fighter? I could technically be if i wanted to be for this amount of money. Do I need that amount of money? Not really. I'm just rich as f**k. I'm kidding."
He further added, saying:
"But It's just like weight cuts are hard dude. They are very hard. I mean I'm almost thinking right now. We're so far out, it's still tricky to say, I might just do a full fight camp, pretty much spar, diet, get to fight week and then decide, you know what I mean. Because I would be so sad dude, if two days out my way, my weight's not low enough to make weight."
Despite the uncertainty, O'Malley did not rule out the possibility entirely, stating that he may decide to undergo a full fight camp and make a decision closer to the fight date. UFC fans will have to wait and see whether O'Malley ultimately decides to take on the backup fighter role for Sterling vs. Cejudo.
Check out Sean O'Malley's comments on the matter in the video below [5:32 mark]:
Sean O'Malley comments on his new 8-fight contract with the UFC
Sean O'Malley recently shared his thoughts on his new eight-fight contract with the promotion. While O'Malley is pleased with the new deal, he revealed that not all of his demands were met during negotiations.
O'Malley revealed that he had negotiated for pay-per-view points but was unable to secure them due to not being a champion yet. Despite that being the case, 'Sugar' expressed his gratitude for the new contract.
The 28-year-old also highlighted his good relationship with the UFC and stated that he feels he has earned the amount he will be paid:
"I tried to get it, you know pay-per-view points not being the champ, didn’t fly, but I will say I did re-sign with the UFC. I got a very gracious contract that I'm proud of... I feel like I have 'earned' this contract. I'm not like, 'Hey I deserve this'. I feel like I've earned the amount that I'm getting paid."
Despite his demands not being met in full, he is thrilled to continue fighting in the UFC and prove himself as one of the most compelling young fighters in the sport.
Check out Sean O'Malley discuss his new contract with the UFC in the video below: