Sean O'Malley Responds to Payton Talbott Callout Following UFC 332

Former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley has addressed the recent post-fight callout from surging prospect Payton Talbott. Following his lopsided knockout victory over Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 332, Talbott used his time on the microphone to challenge O’Malley, while also alleging that the former titleholder has been avoiding a matchup between the two.

O’Malley pushed back against the narrative that he is intentionally ducking the rising contender. While acknowledging that he has no issue with eventually meeting Talbott in the octagon, O’Malley explicitly denied the claim that he has turned down a fight, stating, “He made it up.”

Talbott’s dominant performance against a veteran like Figueiredo has quickly positioned him as one of the most talked-about fighters in the 135-pound division. O’Malley, who remains a central figure in the bantamweight rankings, has been subject to various callouts as he looks toward his next challenge. As of now, no formal bout agreement has been reported, and both fighters remain in different positions regarding their immediate future in the weight class. O’Malley’s comments suggest he is aware of the momentum behind Talbott, though he remains dismissive of any suggestion that he is refusing to face any specific opponent.

Source: MMA Fighting.