Sean OโMalley just lost his bantamweight title to Merab Dvalishvili at Noche UFC (UFC 306). Surely, the comparisons with UFC superstar Conor McGregor came flooding in, comparing their elute striking abilities but lack of grappling skills. Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe has something to comment on this.
Sean OโMalley is frequently compared to Conor McGregor, particularly for his striking ability. However, like McGregor, OโMalley has faced criticism for lacking well-rounded grappling skills. This could be a weakness when facing high-level wrestlers. That is what Shannon Sharpe highlighted during his conversation with Chad โOchocincoโ Johnson on their YouTube channel.
O’Malley’s going to have to be careful. He has dynamite in his hands. But he kinda reminds you of a lot of Conor McGregor. Once he got on the ground, he can’t get up.
Shannon Sharpe via Nightcap
Sean OโMalley lost his bantamweight title to Merab Dvalishvili via unanimous decision after five intense rounds. Dvalishvili used his relentless pace, superior wrestling, and cardio to grind down OโMalley throughout the fight. Despite OโMalleyโs striking prowess, he struggled to handle Dvalishviliโs grappling, which ultimately proved decisive.
Dana White has also drawn comparisons between the two. Ahead of OโMalleyโs title fight, the UFC CEO noted that OโMalley has a similar โstar powerโ and appeal to younger fans, much like McGregor did. White mentioned that โSugaโ has โMcGregorโs mentalityโ as in he understands the business, unlike some other fighters. This makes him easy to work with.ย Nevertheless, his grappling needs major work.
NFL legend highlights Dana Whiteโs disappointment with Sean OโMalley vs. Merab Dvalishvili
UFC 306 stood out largely due to its historic venue at the Sphere in Las Vegas. The unique atmosphere and production at the Sphere with the Mexican theme left a lasting impression, making it a memorable event. However, many felt that the two title bouts towards the end of the event were more subdued.ย
Merab Dvalishvili put on a dominant performance over Sean OโMalley to capture the bantamweight title. Meanwhile, Valentina Shevchenko regained her flyweight title from Alexa Grasso in their trilogy matchup.
However, some felt the main and co-main events lacked the much-needed flair and excitement. Shannon Sharpe pointed this out during his discussion with Chad Johnson.
It was an unbelievable event. I just don’t think Dana got what he wanted as far as submissions, knockouts, things of that nature.
Shannon Sharpe via Nightcap
Dana Whiteย expressed his disappointmentย at the post-fight press conference. These are part of the sport. Lackluster fights happen all the time. UFC 306 became a great event that would have become legendary if it had an exciting co-main and main event for the evening.