UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley stirred online drama after messaging viral internet personality Hailey Welch, known for her “Hawk Tuah” catchphrase.
Fans quickly noticed the interaction, sparking speculation about O’Malley’s intentions, especially given his marriage to Danya Gonzalez, with whom he shares a daughter.
Although reports suggest O’Malley’s messages to Welch were friendly and not explicit, the situation has reignited criticism due to his open stance on infidelity. Many fans view his messaging habits as an extension of his controversial lifestyle, which he openly defended on Bradley Martyn’s Raw Talk podcast.
“I’m a king; I pay for everything,” O’Malley stated unapologetically. “I treat Danya like a queen. If I get a little on the side, what does that have to do with anything? I have testosterone running through my veins — it’s that simple.”
O’Malley admitted his wife does not entirely support his views on open relationships. “She’s never fully on board, but she’s had phases where she’s allowed it,” he admitted, emphasizing that his wealth and success justify his behaviour. “If I wasn’t paying for everything… If I were just an average Joe, I probably wouldn’t [cheat]. But I’m f*cking King Kong, baby.”
This isn’t the first time O’Malley has shared his unconventional views. In a 2022 episode of the Full Send podcast, he revealed he was transparent with Danya from the beginning about his non-traditional views on monogamy, saying, “Neither of us should feel like we own each other.”
Welch, however, made it clear she has no interest in O’Malley, adding to the intrigue. Fans continue to question O’Malley’s actions and whether his lifestyle will affect his career as he prepares for an expected return to the Octagon later this year.
