UFC champ Sean O’Malley smart, but ‘there’s no Superman to him’

Chris Gutierrez believes that UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley is vulnerable.

O’Malley (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) secured the 135-pound title by
knocking out Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292 in August.
O’Malley’s sole loss on his record was a TKO defeat to Marlon Vera in August 2020.

Gutierrez (20-4-2 MMA, 8-2-1 UFC) praised O’Malley but expressed confidence in his ability to defeat him.

“I believe I could beat Sean O’Malley,” Gutierrez told MMA Junkie Radio. “I think he’s a skilled fighter. I wouldn’t say he’s terrible or worthless. No, I think he’s very intelligent and strategic in approaching the game, but besides that, anyone can be defeated. We’re all susceptible. He’s not invincible in my eyes.”

Gutierrez has quietly risen through the bantamweight ranks, with only one loss in his last 10 fights. He has already faced some of the division’s top contenders, scoring a knockout victory over Frankie Edgar but losing a decision to Pedro Munhoz.

After defeating Alateng Heili earlier this month, Gutierrez set his sights on the winner of the Rob Font vs. Deiveson Figueiredo matchup on Dec. 2. He is also keeping a close watch on another significant fight.

“Maybe the winner of (Mario) Bautista and (Ricky) Simon, those are two other guys,” Gutierrez said. “We’re all bound to face each other at some point, so why not get it done now.”

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie