Sean O'Malley Targets Bantamweight Title Shot After Dana White’s Green Light

Sean O’Malley has been handed a UFC bantamweight title shot after Dana White cleared his next fight for July 2023. The No. 1-ranked fighter, coming off a split-decision victory over Petr Yan at UFC 280 in October, now eyes a shot at Aljamain Sterling’s championship. But O’Malley has a preference: Henry Cejudo.

Who’s next for Sean O’Malley?

O’Malley’s path to the title isn’t set. Current champion Aljamain Sterling retained against TJ Dillashaw in October and could face former double champion Henry Cejudo before July. But O’Malley, 28, has made his stance clear: he wants Cejudo.

“It’s a better win, beating the two-time world champ, two weight classes, Olympic gold medalist,” O’Malley told ESPN’s Marc Raimondi. “A win over Henry looks better.”

Why Cejudo over Sterling?

The logic is straightforward. Cejudo’s resume-two UFC titles, Olympic gold in two weight classes-carries more prestige. O’Malley’s split-decision over Yan (UFC 280, October) was his biggest win yet, but a victory over Cejudo would elevate his legacy.

“If you’re just going off that, what win looks better? A win over Aljo or a win over Henry?” O’Malley asked. “For me, a win over Henry looks better.”

What’s the timeline?

O’Malley’s return is locked for July 2023, per White’s directive. The exact opponent remains unclear, but Cejudo’s availability is a wild card. If Sterling fights Cejudo first, O’Malley could slip into the title picture sooner.

How does this fit O’Malley’s rise?

O’Malley’s climb has been steady. His win over Yan-former champion and UFC’s longest-reigning bantamweight-proved he’s a title contender. Now, a shot at Cejudo or Sterling would cement his place as the division’s next star.

The fight isn’t guaranteed, but the green light from White puts O’Malley in the conversation.