Sean O’Malley was successful in defeating Marlon Vera at UFC 299. Who does he want to fight next? As per the champion himself, he is willing to face the #1 ranked contender Merab Dvalishvili. Recently, ‘The Machine’ replied and shared his thoughts on a potential title match-up with the current UFC bantamweight champion.

He has been eyeing a fight against O’Malley since the champion defeated his longtime friend Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292 last year. And in a recent interview with ‘The Schmo’, Dvalishvili pointed out how the potential fight against the champion might play out.

Dvalishvili is eager to fight Sean O’Malley

The #1 UFC bantamweight was interviewed at a street corner in Las Vegas NV. He was confident that he would be next in line for the 135 lbs title. The question of the hour that ‘the Schmo’ asked him was related to Dvalishvili representing Mexico against Sean O’Malley.

‘The Machine’ declared an open fight and said, “He’s gonna fight me and we’re gonna promote this fight you know. He’s saying he’s gonna knock me out okay let’s try let’s try you know like, if you are a man of your word then let’s try you know.”

Dana White is backing the rivalry between the duo and even the fans are excited to see the bantamweight champ defend his position against the number one ranked fighter in the division. However, the 29-year-old was previously seen talking about a double champ status, eyeing a fight against the 145 lbs champion Ilia Topuria. Even though everyone is excited about this fight, Michael Bisping listed the problems that Dvalishvili might have to deal with if he fought O’Malley.

The problems that might arise for Merab Dvalishvili

Dvalishvili put up an immense performance against Henry Cejudo at UFC 298 and achieved a winning streak. Now he has the top spot for gaining the title next in the bantamweight division. Regarding this potential fight, former UFC champion Bisping explained his thoughts on the challenges the champion poses to the challenger.

He mentioned what might be the biggest question for ‘The Machine.’ Bisping explained, “Maybe Merab will be next. But I got to say after what we saw last night from Sean O’Malley that’s going to be a tough fight for Merab. Remember, Aljamain Sterling had problems closing the distance and getting a hold of him. Chito Vera had trouble closing the distance and getting in the range to land strikes. I think Merab Dvalishvili would have the same problem. Not saying he loses. Not saying Suga Sean O’Malley wins, ok. I’m just saying stylistically there would be a problem there.”

The Brit raises a valid point. Both Vera and Sterling are bigger than Dvalishvili, with the latter having an excellent ground game. And O’Malley made quick work of Sterling, while completely dominating Vera. With the champion in such stellar form at the moment, only time will tell if Dvalishvili can topple him and claim the belt for himself. Are you excited to see what happens if this fight comes to fruition?

Read More: Joanna Jędrzejczyk Joins Ronda Rousey as Dana White Honors Ex-UFC Champ With Hall of Fame Entry