Sean O'Malley lukewarm about UFC 299 performance, keeping options open for next fight

After UFC 299, Sean O'Malley explains why he's not over-the-moon about his dominant victory over Marlon Vera.

MIAMI – In the immediate aftermath as heaps of praise came in for Sean O'Malley, the UFC bantamweight champion wasn’t as thrilled with his performance as perhaps some viewers were.

As he limped into the UFC 299 post-fight news conference Saturday at Kaseya Center, he sported a walking boot. His demeanor was largely expressionless.

“Something about not getting a finish that just doesn’t sit right with me,” O’Malley told MMA Junkie and other reporters. “It’s just like, ‘F*ck.’ But I also haven’t watched it. Once I watch it back, I think I’ll be a little bit more excited. I always want to get that finish.”

O’Malley (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) defeated rival Marlon Vera (21-8-1 MMA, 15-7 UFC) by unanimous decision. The fight was his first as champion, meaning he’ll receive pay-per-view points – which could prove to be fruitful financially.

“I think I’m creeping up there,” O’Malley said, of his star power. “I’m getting up there. At the end of the day, the UFC doesn’t need anyone. They’re going to find stars. They’re going to put on crazy fights regardless. I think I’m working my way up to one of the biggest names in the sport.”

As for what’s next, O’Malley called out featherweight champion Ilia Topuria (15-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) in the cage post-fight, but also mentioned Merab Dvalishvili. To summarize, O’Malley isn’t sure what’s next. He’s keeping his options open.

“It’s nice having options. It’s hard to make a decision right after the fight. We’ll see how it plays out, talk to the UFC, talk to Hunter (Campbell), talk to Dana (White), and we’ll see what happens.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 299.