Sean O'Malley disputes loss at UFC 306, believes he's still champion

Despite being on the losing side of a dominating performance at UFC 306, Sean O’Malley isn’t ready to accept the defeat.

The event at the Las Vegas Sphere was a beautifully crafted work of art, all centered around the history of combat sports in Mexico. ‘Suga’ was given the honor of headlining the pay-per-view, but didn’t look his usual self as he was pummeled by Merab Dvalishvili for 25 minutes.

While most including the judges gave Dvalishvili the unanimous decision victory, Sean O’Malley believes otherwise.

Heading to social media in the days following his loss, O’Malley disputed the result. After rewatching the fight, the fan-favorite claimed to have won three rounds and has set plans into motion for his next title defense. 

“Round 1. I won that round 100%,” O’Malley said. “Based on damage, that’s my round.”

“Round 2 [definitely] lost. Took very little damage, though.”

“Round 3 was closer than round 1 in my opinion. My round. Up 2-1 going into round 4.”

“Round 4 [was] Merabs round for sure. 2-2 going into the 5th.”

“Round 5 I won. I am the champ. God is good. 1, 3, 5 rounds I won. Defending [the] belt against Umar in Vegas June/July.”

Related: UFC 306 Highlights: Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili

While O’Malley’s scorecard reads differently, the general consensus agree with Merab Dvalishvili getting his hand raised on the night.

Though, surprisingly enough, the former champion was just one round away from retaining his title.

Sean O’Malley was awarded the third and fifth round on two judges scorecards, meaning he was just one clear round away from remaining the UFC bantamweight champion.

The 29-year-old will now look to recover from his surgery scheduled for October before making a return to the octagon. 

Tim Welch — Sean O’Malley’s friend and head coach — listed several names he’d like O’Malley to meet in the cage once he is back to 100%.