UFC 324 Co-Main Event: O’Malley vs. Yadong — Round-by-Round Live Coverage
The UFC 324 card in Las Vegas featured one of the most anticipated bantamweight showdowns of the year when former champion Sean O’Malley faced Chinese contender Song Yadong in the co-main event at the famed T-Mobile Arena. This bout was crucial for both fighters’ career trajectories and the rapidly evolving division. Before the fight, both men weighed in successfully at bantamweight limits, setting the stage for a highly strategic and entertaining battle.
Fight Build-Up and Stakes
Sean O’Malley came into UFC 324 looking to re-establish himself after consecutive losses and regain momentum toward another title shot. O’Malley, known for his dynamic striking, length, and precision, had previously reigned as bantamweight champion and still carried star power across the sport. According to analysts, O’Malley’s reach and ability to control the distance could provide him an early advantage against the aggressive Song.
Song Yadong entered this matchup as a ranked contender with a reputation for durability, power, and forward pressure. At 22-8-1, Song has consistently tested top talent and looked to further his claim for a title opportunity with a signature victory over a former champion. Many pundits noted Song’s toughness and unrelenting pace would test O’Malley’s game plan throughout the fight.
Controversy in the Build-Up
Pre-fight tensions were amplified during early promotional media when O’Malley wore a surgical-style face mask to a face-off with Yadong. The gesture was widely criticized and perceived by some as racially insensitive given the opponent’s heritage, sparking debate within the MMA community. Song responded by emphasizing his respect for the sport while calling for professionalism and urging fighters not to bring racism into mixed martial arts. O’Malley later apologized, stating his intentions were not meant to offend.
Round 1: Early Adjustments and Ring Control
From the opening horn, both fighters came out aggressive. O’Malley used his characteristic footwork to gauge distance and measure with sharp jabs and kicks. He aimed to keep Song at bay using lateral movement and precision striking. Song, unsurprised by the range game, pressed forward with combinations, trying to trap O’Malley against the cage or cut off angles. The early moments were contested at a measured pace as both men adjusted to the Octagon lights and crowd energy.
Song’s aggression paid dividends mid-round as he started closing distance more effectively, landing solid body kicks and heavy leg kicks that disrupted O’Malley’s rhythm. O’Malley countered with crisp straight punches and a high volume of feints, forcing Song to hesitate occasionally on entries. The round closed with a slight advantage for Song in forward activity, though O’Malley’s accuracy and cleaner strikes were noticeable.
Round 2: Strategic Adjustments and Mid-Round Push
As the second round began, both fighters demonstrated respect and strategic awareness. O’Malley continued leveraging his reach, mixing low kicks with straight punches to maintain range. Song adapted to this by increasing push-forward pressure, firing combinations that sought to overwhelm O’Malley at close quarters.
At the midpoint of the round, Song briefly secured a clinch against the cage, forcing O’Malley to defend takedown attempts. O’Malley elegantly disengaged and created space with a quick lateral pivot before landing a sharp kick to the body. This moment seemed to slow Song’s momentum and allowed O’Malley to dictate distance once again.
By the end of the round, O’Malley’s distance control and precision shots appeared slightly more effective, while Song’s pressure remained commendable but somewhat predictable under counterstrike threats.
Round 3: Final Fury and High Stakes
Entering the final stanza, fighters exchanged words mid-fight from their corners, each aware of what was at stake. Song leaned into heavy leg kicks and looping punches, attempting to close the gap and disrupt O’Malley’s range advantage. O’Malley responded with pinpoint striking, occasionally slipping past Song’s forward pressure to land clean shots.
In the last two minutes, both fighters traded significant blows in the center of the Octagon. O’Malley’s calculated combinations punctuated the action, while Song’s pressure inflicted relentless pace and sought to capitalize on any mistimed defensive movement. The arena buzzed as each landed power shots, showcasing why both men are elite in the bantamweight ranks.
Ultimately, the final round highlighted contrasting styles: O’Malley’s measured precision versus Song’s rugged aggression. The bell sounded with both competitors showing signs of fatigue but undoubtedly leaving it all in the Octagon.
Implications and What’s Next
While official scorecards and results are determined by judges, the fight’s trajectory could have major implications for the bantamweight title picture. A strong performance from O’Malley might accelerate his climb back to championship contention, whereas a win for Song would solidify his status as a top contender and possibly lead to future title opportunities.
Analyst predictions leaned toward O’Malley’s victory due to range management and striking precision, while others emphasised Song’s ability to pressure and force mistakes. The variety of expert opinions reflects the competitive nature of this matchup and its importance on the UFC 324 card.