Mon Sep 23 17:03:39 UTC 2024: ## O’Malley Seeks Rematch After Controversial Loss, Sonnen Calls for “Controversy” Review

Former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley has admitted to “over-promising” and “under-delivering” in his UFC 306 loss to Merab Dvalishvili, but maintains that he won three of the five rounds. The fight, which saw Dvalishvili claim the title, has sparked controversy, with many calling for a rematch.

Former UFC two-division title challenger Chael Sonnen weighed in on the situation, stating that “every great champion” who lost their title was offered a rematch, citing examples like Conor McGregor and Israel Adesanya. However, Sonnen expressed surprise that O’Malley has not yet been given the same opportunity.

Sonnen argued that the “controversy” surrounding the fight justifies a rematch, pointing specifically to rounds one, three, and five as particularly debatable. He believes these rounds should be reviewed without commentary to determine whether a rematch is warranted.

While O’Malley seeks a rematch, Dvalishvili’s next opponent is yet to be determined. Currently, top contenders Umar Nurmagomedov and Deiveson Figueiredo are both in the running. Nurmagomedov, however, expressed his frustration on Twitter, stating that he is still waiting for news regarding the fight.

The UFC is expected to make an announcement regarding Dvalishvili’s next fight within the next few weeks.

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