Bryce Mitchell open to replace Sean O’Malley or Aiemann Zahabi at UFC White House despite issues with event

Bryce Mitchell emerged victorious at UFC Vegas 118 on Saturday, submitting Santiago Luna in the final seconds of their bantamweight bout. Despite harboring reservations about the UFC's upcoming White House event next Sunday, the Arkansas native told reporters he would accept a short-notice replacement opportunity if either headliner Sean O'Malley or Aiemann Zahabi were unable to compete.

"If somebody gets hurt and they need me, I'm going to put some Icy Hot on my back and I'll fight," Mitchell said during the post-fight scrum. "That's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." He indicated a preference for O'Malley, citing the fighter's American nationality and expressing admiration for O'Malley and striking coach Tim Welch.

Earlier in the week, Mitchell had publicly criticized the government's involvement in hosting the event, questioning whether it represented an appropriate use of taxpayer resources. "Our government is supposed to protect and serve the people," Mitchell stated at the UFC Vegas 118 media day. "When you're doing all of this stuff, hosting sporting events, it's really outside of what the goal of the government was intended to be."

Mitchell, who has faced previous controversy for offensive comments, clarified that his criticism was not malicious nor intended as a condemnation of the UFC itself. He noted that his perspective was well-received and emphasized his gratitude for his position with the organization while defending his right to voice opinions. Regarding his availability as a backup fighter, Mitchell acknowledged the uncertainty of his physical condition post-fight, stating he would monitor his recovery before committing to any short-notice opportunity.