Petr Yan reclaimed the bantamweight title at UFC 323 with a standout performance against Merab Dvalishvili, impressing Sean O’Malley, who anticipates a potential rematch with Yan if he defeats Song Yadong at UFC 324.
In December, Yan faced off against Merab Dvalishvili for the bantamweight title at UFC 323. After a tough loss in their first encounter, Yan was seen as the underdog. But he defied expectations, delivering one of the year’s standout performances. For 25 grueling minutes, he outworked the champ and reclaimed the title.
O’Malley, having lost twice to Dvalishvili, was seriously impressed by Yan’s victory. “That was so sick,” he exclaimed on the Death Row MMA podcast. “Petr’s always been one of my favorite fighters to watch.”
Reflecting on Yan’s rise, O’Malley added, “I remember thinking, ‘God, damn, this guy is so skilled.’ He’s a little Russian, balding, but scary as hell. Always been a favorite.”
O’Malley recently rewatched Yan’s fight with Merab. He described it as “a beautiful performance,” highlighting Yan’s strategic elbow work. “Merab was holding his forearm after the first round. Just incredible.”
Dvalishvili managed only two successful takedowns out of 24 attempts. Yan’s defensive wrestling was slick, and his ability to slam Merab was a sight to behold.
O’Malley has a storied history with both fighters. He lost the bantamweight title to Dvalishvili in 2024 and again in a rematch last June. Meanwhile, he fought Yan at UFC 280 in 2022, winning a split decision that catapulted him into title contention.
Now, O’Malley is gearing up to face Song Yadong at UFC 324. He believes a win could set up another showdown with Yan. “Me vs. Petr at the White House just makes sense,” O’Malley mused. “If we’re talking big fights, that’s it.”
UFC 324 is set for Jan. 24 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main event will feature an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.