Experienced coach Sean O'Malley discusses his collaborative efforts with MMA legend Demetrius Johnson.
Preparing for a Rematch: O'Malley Embraces Clinching Techniques from Johnson, Impressed by Adesanya's Style
Sean O'Malley is gearing up for his rematch with Merab Dvalishvili in the 316th numbered event of the Dana White's Contender Series on June 8, and his training regimen has seen him work with two UFC champions - Israel Adesanya and Demetrious Johnson.
The head coach of O'Malley, Tim Welch, shared his experience of coaching "Sugar" and working with "The Mouse," Johnson, on his YouTube channel. Welch praised Johnson for his prowess in the clinch, stating, "His speed and explosive power are incredible." Johnson reportedly applies immense pressure in the clinch, causing opponents to reach out for a hold, at which point he delivers a powerful knee to the body.
O'Malley himself lauded Johnson's quickness, confessing that his speed was more than he had anticipated. The fighter expressed that standing in front of Johnson immediately underscored why he is considered among the MMA greats.
Prior to training with Johnson, O'Malley also experienced Israel Adesanya's training techniques, affording him exposure to diverse fighting styles. Johnson's clinch and grappling skills, alongside Adesanya's striking expertise, significantly boosted O'Malley's preparations for the rematch against Dvalishvili, who is known for his relentless pace and pressure.
During the lead-up to their first bout, O'Malley lost the title to Dvalishvili in September last year. Now, he seeks to avenge that loss. In addition to increased clinch proficiency, O'Malley has demonstrated enhanced speed and athleticism during his training sessions with Johnson.
O'Malley's combatives training with Johnson and Adesanya has provided him with invaluable lessons on clinching techniques, improving his speed and refining his overall combat readiness in preparation for the highly anticipated rematch.
- Josh Thomson voices skepticism about Chimaev's abilities ahead of UFC 319
- Aspinall playfully taunts Jones, hints at a potential "new belt" bout
- Perry responds to McGregor's recent jab
Bookmakers might favor O'Malley in his rematch against Dvalishvili, as he has been training with UFC champions Israel Adesanya and Demetrius Johnson, known for their expertise in mixed-martial-arts, particularly Adesanya's striking skills and Johnson's clinch and grappling techniques.
tim welch, o'malley's coach, praised Johnson's clinch abilities on his YouTube channel, stating that his speed and explosive power are incredible, similar to what o'malley experienced firsthand, prompting him to acknowledge why Johnson is considered among the MMA greats.
