Stylistically, this matchup is one of the most compelling in the division. Yan has time and again proved that he’s as well rounded as they come, defending takedowns well while putting on a clinic every time an opponent tries to stand and trade with him.
O’Malley’s done pretty much the same. No, he hasn’t fought former champions like Yan, until now, but the way he’s finished opponents like Raulian Paiva, Thomas Almeida and Eddie Wineland is nothing short of spectacular.
MORE UFC 280: Preview Every Fight On The Card | Fighters On The Rise
O’Malley recognizes that and exudes confidence heading into UFC 280, knowing he can get the job done on the feet and beat Yan where he feels most comfortable.
“I feel like I’m just better than him [on the feet], I’m faster than him” O’Malley said. “Obviously it’s a fight, it’s physical, but I think it’ll be a mental battle and I feel that I’m prepared to win that.
“I know I’m capable of going out there and dominating, and I’d like to do that. I would rather go out and dominate him than go through a war and take unnecessary damage. I’m prepared for that and if I had to guess, yeah, we’re going to go to war for 15 minutes, but I would not be surprised if I go out there, piece him up and get out of there unscathed.”
