Sean O’Malley vs. Andre Soukhamthath booked for UFC 222

Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Sean O’Malley will make his second trip to the Octagon when he faces Andre Soukhamthath at UFC 222 on Mar. 3.

MMA Fighting confirmed the fight following an initial Wednesday report by MMAJunkie.com.

O’Malley impressed in his promotional debut when he faced off against a durable Terrion Ware at the TUF 26 Finale on Dec. 1. Despite showcasing his dynamic striking ability, “Sugar” was unable to stop his counterpart after predicting a first-round knockout over the former boxer.

The 23-year-old was signed after claiming two consecutive highlight reel knockouts earlier this year. His first round wheel kick knockout of David Nuzzo led to a call up to Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series.

O’Malley grasped his chance to impress the UFC brass in resounding fashion when he stopped Alfred Khashakyan with a sharp right hand that secured a first-round knockout and a UFC contract.

The 29-year-old Soukhamthath was in a must-win situation when he stepped up to face Luke Sanders at UFC Fresno after an injury forced Bryan Caraway out of contention.

In his two visits to the Octagon until that point, “The Asian Sensation” had lost out to Albert Morales and Alejandro Perez by split decision. Morales was given the nod by the judges after three rounds at UFC 209 and Perez edged a win at UFC Fight Night 114 in Mexico City.