Chinese bantamweight contender Song Yadong did not hold back when discussing Sean O’Malley’s controversial mask stunt at their UFC 324 faceoff, calling the incident totally racist during an interview.
When asked about O’Malley bringing out a mask during their pre-contest encounter, Song was direct.
So yeah, that was totally racist.
When pressed on whether he found it offensive, Song added,
Yeah, a little bit. I’m not happy with that. Even the Chinese don’t like that.
The interviewer then asked whether Song felt O’Malley had crossed a line with his promotional tactics.
You think O’Malley took it a little too far this time?
Song responded by addressing Ali Abdelaziz and comparing the approach to Conor McGregor.
Oh yeah. He wants to be the second Conor. I’m okay with that. It’s good for promotion. Whatever he says or does, I’m focused on my fight.
Despite criticizing the stunt, Song said he was able to approach the situation with humor. He referenced a birthday video filmed in China in which multiple people dressed up as O’Malley, crediting a friend for the idea.
Yeah, that was in China. My friend Jim came up with the idea. He wanted to make a funny video, so I said, “Okay, let’s try it.” He has a lot of students, you know.
The bout represents a major opportunity for Song, who was originally scheduled to compete against Rob Font in Shanghai last August before plans were changed.
USA told me I wouldn’t fight in Shanghai, I would fight O’Malley instead. But there was no date, so I had to wait. Until December, I finally knew the news.
When discussing O’Malley as an MMA star, Song was respectful of his abilities.
Yeah, he is a very good fighter. He might be flashy on camera, but he’s very skilled, and he has very good striking.
Song also made his confidence clear heading into the contest.
Even in striking, I think I’m better than him. He has never faced a style like mine.
Editor’s Note: Quotes have been edited for grammar and clarity.
