By 
Sean O’Malley, the dynamic UFC bantamweight fighter, recently attended RIZIN 49 in Saitama, Japan, where he expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of competing in Japan under the UFC banner.
Impressed by the event’s production and atmosphere, O’Malley remarked, “The production of the show was incredible, the energy in the arena was incredible, the ring girls are incredible. Overall impression of Japan, this has been the most fun trip I’ve ever been on and I would love to come back.”
While open to fighting in Japan, O’Malley emphasized his commitment to the UFC, stating, “Right now, obviously, I’m with the UFC. I plan to be with the UFC forever, so if the UFC comes here some day, I would love to fight in this arena. There’s a good energy here.”
He also noted differences between RIZIN’s ruleset and the UFC’s, particularly regarding strikes to a downed opponent, and how these might affect his fighting style.
The UFC last held an event in Japan in 2017, but recent interactions between UFC President Dana White and RIZIN President Nobuyuki Sakakibara suggest a potential return.
O’Malley’s interest in competing in Japan aligns with these developments, indicating a shared enthusiasm for expanding the UFC’s presence in the region.
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