
Sean O’Malley was hailed as the biggest star to emerge in the UFC over the past five years until last year. His striking, charismatic, and marketable qualities made him a fan favorite and a promotional centerpiece. However, things took a sharp turn after his fight at UFC 306. Questions about his hype, all-around fighting abilities, and whether he could truly hang with the division’s elite began to surface.
UFC 316 was billed as his shot at redemption, a chance to settle the score with Merab Dvalishvili and reclaim his status. But once again, it didn’t go as planned. ‘The Machine’ dominantly outclassed him, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering: What’s next for Sean O’Malley after back-to-back losses?
“Change weight class,” one said.
Change weight class,
— Rami J.Sartawi (@ramisartawi) June 8, 2025
Meanwhile, one fan shared a Petr Yan gif saying, “It’s time to run it back.”
It's time to run it back. pic.twitter.com/9EixEuqUJs
— malomalosi 💔✂️ (@malomalosii) June 8, 2025
Pointing at his wrestling weakness, one fan said, “2-3 years Dagestan.”
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2-3 years Dagestan
— Ye (@india_adesanya) June 8, 2025
One fan says, “His career and hype are both almost over.”
His career and hype are both almost over.
— Comments and Polls. (@2Jab_1Cross) June 8, 2025
On the other hand, some fans suggest he should “retire.”
Retire
— Tito’s Take (@TitosTake) June 8, 2025
Retirement
— BludOfBalka🩸 (@BludOfBalka) June 8, 2025
Retire
— NoticingAgent2468 (@foolofating666) June 8, 2025
One fan suggests he should join “BKFC.”
Bkfc
— Daddy’s Beard Company (@daddysbeardco) June 8, 2025
In the aftermath, fans on the internet went wild with their reactions. Some called for O’Malley to retire, others suggested a move to a different weight class, and many threw in names of fighters they believed he should face next.
Sean O’Malley Promises UFC Fans He’s Not Going Anywhere

After the UFC 316 loss, Joe Rogan expressed confidence in Sean O’Malley’s ability to bounce back. He encouraged him to return to the drawing board, make key adjustments, and return stronger. Rogan believed the setback would fuel O’Malley’s growth rather than define his career.
Sean O’Malley’s instant reaction to the Merab loss
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 8, 2025
“I didn’t feel like it was going to go like that… Merab’s a motherf***er.” #UFC316pic.twitter.com/NjqdnvSapX
In response, O’Malley confirmed, saying “100%” he will return, showing determination and focus. The moment reignited hope among fans, suggesting that the ‘Suga’ era might not be over despite back-to-back losses. It will be interesting to see what happens next in O’Malley’s career, especially as everyone is questioning him.
Also Read: Aljamain Sterling Questions The Hype, Says Sean O’Malley’s Personality Falls Flat