“Suga” Sean O’Malley triumphed on Saturday, avenging the only loss of his career against Marlon “Chito” Vera and retaining the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) bantamweight title.
Headlining UFC 299, O’Malley showcased his prowess in a striking performance, donning bespoke battle shorts and distinctive pink and blue cornrows. He dominated Vera with a unanimous decision victory (50-45, 50-45, 50-44).
Four years prior, Vera handed O’Malley his sole career defeat with a leg kick that numbed his right foot in the first round of UFC 252. However, O’Malley’s victory on Saturday marked his first successful defense of the UFC bantamweight title.
According to ESPN, O’Malley, often dubbed Suga, displayed exceptional footwork and combinations, delivering precise left hands and powerful right crosses throughout the fight.
In the second round, O’Malley landed a devastating right knee to Vera’s face, causing a cut below his right eye. In the third round, O’Malley dropped Vera to a knee with a powerful right hand.
Prior to the main event, Dustin Poirier secured his lightweight division position by defeating Benoit Saint Denis in the second round, while Michael “Venom” Page made his UFC debut with a decision win over Kevin Holland.
Moreover, Jack Della Maddalena emerged victorious against Gilbert Burns, and Petr Yan claimed a top spot ranking with a win over Song Yadong in the final rounds.
Notably, former President Donald Trump attended the main event alongside his daughter Ivanka and UFC President Dana White.