Sean O’Malley’s coach gives his thoughts on possible Payton Talbott clash

Sean O’Malley’s coach Tim Welch has given his thoughts on his student possibly taking on rising star Payton Talbott.

By Harry Kettle · BJ Penn

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 3:23 PM

Key Things to Know

Coach Tim Welch stated a potential bout between Sean O'Malley and Payton Talbott was never offered by the UFC.
Welch praised Talbott's pressure and striking, calling a matchup against O'Malley a great potential fight.
The coach indicated the division's future plans could hinge on the outcome of an October 24 Petr Yan bout.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Sean O'Malley's coach Tim Welch shared his thoughts regarding a potential matchup between O'Malley and rising UFC contender Payton Talbott. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Welch praised Talbott's fighting style and expressed interest in seeing the two clash eventually, but insisted the UFC has never officially offered Talbott as an opponent to their team.

Welch noted that future matchmaking could depend on the division's title picture following an upcoming October 24 bout involving Petr Yan. He also pushed back against commentary suggesting O'Malley should face the lower-ranked Talbott instead of pursuing a more lucrative championship fight.

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Sean O’Malley’s coach gives his thoughts on possible Payton Talbott clash

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