Petr Yan responds to Sean O'Malley's rematch call after UFC Freedom 250

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 6:40 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Petr Yan responds to Sean O'Malley's rematch call after UFC Freedom 250
Summary

Sean O'Malley called for a rematch with Petr Yan following his knockout victory at UFC Freedom 250. O'Malley, who has now won two consecutive fights, expressed his desire to face Yan after defeating Aiemann Zahabi. Yan, the current bantamweight champion, attributed the lack of a rematch to the UFC's apprehension regarding O'Malley's chances, stating that they were 'afraid' for him in their potential matchup. Yan had recently undergone minor back surgery but is expected to continue his title reign, now with O'Malley as a contender once more. Discussions about Yan's next fight could feature a trilogy bout against Merab Dvalishvili, whom he previously defeated.

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By the Numbers
  • O'Malley defeated Aiemann Zahabi by knockout at UFC Freedom 250.
  • O'Malley expressed a clear desire for a rematch with Petr Yan.
  • Yan believes UFC was hesitant about O'Malley fighting him next.
  • Yan is recovering from minor back surgery after winning the bantamweight title.
  • A trilogy fight with Merab Dvalishvili remains a possibility for Yan.
Latest Updates
  • 6:40 PMYahoo SportsPetr Yan responds to Sean O'Malley's callout: 'The UFC were afraid for you!'
What they're saying
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Sean O'Malley called for a rematch with bantamweight champion Petr Yan after UFC Freedom 250. Will that rematch happen next?

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