The Film Room: Sean O’Malley

As a lanky fighter with an entertaining standup game and fun-to-watch style, Sean O'Malley has developed a cult following during his brief mixed martial arts career. After an impressive win on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series and a decision victory over Terrion Ware in his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut, the 23-year-old will meet Andre Soukhamthath in a bantamweight showcase at UFC 222 on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

This installment of The Film Room takes a look at some of the highlights associated with O’Malley’s career so far.

---

High-Stakes Knockout

O’Malley secured his UFC contract in spectacular fashion during an appearance on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series. In a fight against Alfred Khashakyan on July 18, he impressed with a performance filled with highlight-reel strikes. Eventually, O’Malley connected with a shot down the middle to knock out Khashakyan and earn his spot on the UFC roster.

---

Octagon Jitters Be Damned

After he won over UFC President Dana White with his efforts against Khashakyan, O’Malley was forced to put together a more complete performance in his promotional debut at “The Ultimate Fighter 26” Finale on Dec. 1. Ware gave the MMA Lab prospect all he could handle, but O’Malley answered the challenge and proved he could maintain his quality throughout a three-round fight. O’Malley even executed a takedown, further evidence of his all-around talents.

---

When Electricity Flows

O’Malley has gained a considerable following early in his UFC career, largely due to his dynamic standup skills. That striking was on display in his devastating knockout of David Nuzzo at Legacy Fighting Alliance 11 on May 5. O’Malley did in Nuzzo with a spinning hook kick that serves as arguably his most memorable moment to date. AXS-TV named it one of the best knockouts of 2017.