When it comes to Sean O’Malley, the judges might as well take the night off for Saturday’s UFC 299 main event in Miami, Florida.
The UFC bantamweight champion is gearing up for his first title defense against Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera, seeking redemption for his only career loss. With confidence brimming, O’Malley anticipates a knockout victory, aiming for his 13th career KO when he steps into the ring in the Sunshine State.
Sporting his trademark flamboyant attire, O’Malley exuded his usual swagger during Thursday’s pre-fight press conference. Rather than shying away from the spotlight, he took aim at Vera and other fighters in the 135-pound division, adding fuel to the fire of anticipation.
For O’Malley, this level of confidence stems from his unwavering belief that a knockout is inevitable. “I’m very calm going into this fight,” he asserted. “It’s easy to be calm when you know you’re going to knock someone the f*ck out.”
The upcoming bout marks a reunion between O’Malley and Vera, three-and-a-half years after Vera secured a first-round TKO victory, exploiting O’Malley’s temporary nerve damage known as ‘drop foot’ induced by a barrage of low kicks.
However, O’Malley remains undaunted by past setbacks, aiming to turn the tables with his own striking prowess.
“I’m going to just kick him in the lips,” O’Malley boldly declared. “He can kick my legs all he wants, but my leg’s going to be on his f*cking chin.”
Firing shots at his rivals, O’Malley didn’t hold back, labeling Vera as “a f*cking piñata,” Petr Yan as “one fight away from bare-knuckle boxing,” and poking fun at Merab’s nose. His message was clear: he’s ready to dominate.
On the other side of the ring, Vera, entering his 33rd professional bout, exuded calm confidence. “I’m ready to go,” he affirmed. “I’m healthy, I’m happy, and I’ve been putting in the work. This is a life-changing opportunity.”
Having dedicated a decade to his UFC career, Vera sees this championship fight as the culmination of his efforts. “I’m going to fight for the UFC gold,” he declared. “I love to be here.”
As the tension builds and the stage is set, both fighters are poised to leave everything in the Octagon, promising a clash that fans won’t soon forget.
