UFC 250: Eddie Wineland’s Not Fazed by Sean O’Malley’s Hype

Eddie Wineland understands that he and Sean O’Malley are at opposite ends of their careers, and that the latter is one of the sports fastest rising bantamweights. But, Wineland says he’s more than ready to bring O’Malley’s ascension to a halt at UFC 250.

Wineland won’t apologize for having to “derail” O’Malley

Since O’Malley scored a win on Dana White’s Contender Series, the dynamic and talented fighter has received a solid push from the UFC. The 25 year-old has made the most of his opportunity, as O’Malley has gone 3-0 to date in the Octagon and now carries an overall record of 11-0.

Wineland, meanwhile, is likely approaching the final chapter of his career. While the dangerous fighter doesn’t seem to have lost a step in the cage, Wineland (24-13-1) is 35 now, and he’s competed in nearly 40 fights.

So, while talking to the media recently, Wineland was asked about the circumstances surrounding this fight, and he said this (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“It’s a big opportunity for me. It’s a big opportunity for him, also,” Wineland said. “He’s fighting a veteran. I’m fighting a guy who has got a huge name.

Even though he’s been in the UFC not that long, he’s got a very big name, very big following. As far as derailing? It is what it is.

They set us up to fight. If it derails him, it derails him. I’m sorry, but I’m here to win. I’m not here to lose.”

And when asked to comment on the fact a lot of people are likely predicting Wineland will lose, he said the following.

“I really don’t care,” Wineland said. “I’ve been doing this for 17 years. I’ve been been doing it since 2003, before it was even the cool thing to do.

I started doing this when we were fighting in bars making up our own rules, so I don’t care. I like to fight. That’s why I’m here. That’s why I’m still here.”

Not a surprise

When you consider that Wineland has been fighting since 2003 and who he has faced over the year, his comments above shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Wineland has battled the likes of Urijah Faber, Joseph Benavidez, Renan Barao and John Dodson during his career. So, he’s more that accustomed to fighting opponents with big names and lots of buzz.

All this aside, on paper, there is lots to love about this match-up. Both Wineland and O’Malley are athletic, and explosive strikers. So, there’s no question this fight could steal the show tonight in Las Vegas.