Mario Bautista looks back on his 10-year journey with current bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley as he strives for UFC champion glory. Both fighters started their careers in Arizona and had dreams of reaching the UFC. With O’Malley currently holding the bantamweight title, Bautista, who is on a five-fight winning streak, is looking to break into the top 15 in the rankings with his next fight against Ricky Simon at UFC Vegas 84.
Bautista reflects on his early years as an amateur to professional fighter and shares the ups and downs of his career. Due to differences in style with Simon, they did not train together for Bautista’s next fight, but the camaraderie remains strong. Bautista recognizes O’Malley’s loyalty and willingness to help his teammates whenever needed.
Bautista is looking in his friend’s favor, but expressed confidence in O’Malley’s rematch with Marlon “Tito” Vera at UFC 299. He expects O’Malley to grow and expects her to win. Looking ahead to his own ambitions, Bautista envisions climbing the rankings after his upcoming fights as a stepping stone to a potential UFC title shot.
Bautista is not concerned about the possibility of facing his teammate and reigning champion O’Malley in the future. He acknowledges the potential for a conflict of interest, but emphasizes that he will address it when the time comes, focusing on his journey and pursuit of UFC gold.
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