Following his defeat to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306, where Sean O'Malley lost the bantamweight title via unanimous decision, the question looms: what’s next for the former champion? With O'Malley set to undergo hip surgery, expected to keep him sidelined until mid-2025, his path back to title contention is of keen interest to fans and analysts alike. As he recovers, several potential matchups emerge that could define his return. Let’s explore the top contenders vying for a shot against O'Malley when he makes his comeback.

Cory Sandhagen

Cory Sandhagen, currently ranked #4 in the bantamweight division, presents a formidable challenge for O'Malley. With a professional record of 17 wins and 5 losses, Sandhagen is known for his striking versatility and high fight IQ. His notable UFC fights include a recent unanimous decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov, as well as victories over Rob Font and Marlon Vera, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level.

A matchup between O'Malley and Sandhagen could turn into a striking showcase, highlighting both fighters' unique skills. Sandhagen’s ability to use angles and distance effectively would create an intriguing dynamic against O'Malley’s knockout power and unorthodox striking style. This bout would not only be a test for O'Malley’s recovery but also a potential high-stakes clash that fans would eagerly anticipate.

Petr Yan

Petr Yan, a former UFC Bantamweight Champion currently ranked 3rd, is another compelling option for O'Malley. Also holding a record of 17 wins and 5 losses, Yan's technical boxing and experience in the octagon could provide a significant test for O'Malley. Their previous encounter ended in a split decision victory for O'Malley, making a rematch particularly intriguing.

Yan’s recent victory over Song Yadong demonstrated his resilience and capability to bounce back from setbacks. A rematch with Yan would not only allow O'Malley to prove himself after his title loss but also test his adaptability post-injury. This matchup would likely feature a tactical battle, pitting Yan’s striking precision against O'Malley’s dynamic offense.

Henry Cejudo

Henry Cejudo, a two-weight world champion with a record of 16 wins and 4 losses, poses a unique challenge for O'Malley due to his wrestling pedigree and striking power. Currently ranked 6th, Cejudo’s recent bouts against elite opponents have shown he remains a top-tier competitor, and his ability to integrate wrestling with striking creates an exciting contrast in styles.

Cejudo’s Olympic-level grappling could test O'Malley’s takedown defense and ground game, making this matchup particularly compelling. If Cejudo can return to form after his layoff, the clash of their contrasting styles could result in a highly entertaining fight. Fans would be eager to see if O'Malley can handle the pressure and adapt against a seasoned veteran like Cejudo.