GSP Says Zahabi Was Stopped Too Early After O’Malley Second‑Round Finish

Overview

• Sean O’Malley dropped and finished Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Freedom 250, producing a second‑round stoppage that stands on the record.
• Georges St‑Pierre, who advised Zahabi in camp, told reporters he believes the referee ended the fight too quickly and that Zahabi could have recovered.
• GSP described Zahabi’s plan as purposely avoiding straight‑line pressure, conceding early engagement to land volume and leg kicks before using his underused ground game.
• Reporting clarifies that Firas Zahabi devised the primary game plan while GSP served as an occasional corner adviser rather than the lead coach.
• The stoppage has prompted public debate over officiating and also strengthens O’Malley’s case for another title opportunity while leaving Zahabi to reassess his path in a stacked bantamweight division.