UFC president Dana White announced on Saturday that the bantamweight star had signed an eight-fight deal to remain with the promotion, and O’Malley himself confirmed the news on his podcast. O'Malley represented himself in negotiations with the UFC.
“I did re-sign with the UFC. I got a very gracious contract that I’m proud of,” O’Malley said. “… I got a number that I’m very happy with. I truly don’t think any manager that I had could have went in there and got me what I got. That also helps with the relationship built with the UFC. I feel like I have earned this contract. I feel like I have earned the amount that I’m getting paid. I think the UFC is fine with paying people what they earn. I’m very happy with how the negotiations went.”
After appearing on Season 1 of Dana White’s Contender Series, O’Malley has emerged as one of the UFC’s top stars at 135 pounds. He is coming off a signature victory over ex-champ Petr Yan at UFC 280, a victory that has seemingly put “Sugar” in line for a future title shot at 135 pounds.