Cory Sandhagen has his eyes firmly set on a UFC title shot come 2025, but first, he must conquer Deiveson Figueiredo in the main event at UFC on ESPN 67. After a disappointing unanimous decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in a bantamweight title eliminator last August, Sandhagen is determined to reclaim his standing in the fierce competitive landscape of the UFC. Boasting a professional record of 17 wins and 5 losses, with 10 of those victories inside the UFC Octagon, Sandhagen is eager to network his talent and ambition into victories.
As the stakes rise in the bantamweight division, fans are abuzz with expectations. The reigning champion, Merab Dvalishvili, is slated for a rematch with Sean O’Malley, which leaves the door wide open for Sandhagen. With both Dvalishvili and O’Malley holding potential bouts against him, Sandhagen knows he must seize this opportunity to embroil himself in title contention. The match against Figueiredo is not merely a stepping stone; it is a critical moment that could alter the trajectory of his career.
A Brand-New Challenge
Approaching this match, Sandhagen carries a sense of confidence and optimism. “I like the fight a lot,” he stated in an interview, illuminating his eagerness to face Figueiredo. By recognizing the potential challenges presented by the former champion, Sandhagen is simultaneously acknowledging his own growth and tactical advantages. He has trained rigorously, enhancing skills that could disarm Figueiredo’s notorious knockout power and submission strategies.
What separates Sandhagen from many contenders is his unique fight style and adaptability. He thrives against aggressive fighters who seek finishes, seeing Figueiredo’s penchant for striking and submissions as both a challenge and a golden opportunity. “This fight is where I believe I can really shine,” he elaborated, hinting at a masterclass in striking and strategy that he plans to unveil on fight night. The excitement surrounding this matchup is palpable, as Sandhagen believes the audience will witness a performance that reverberates through the division.
Strategic Calculation for Future Fights
In addition to the Figueiredo showdown, Sandhagen is already mapping out his future in the bantamweight hierarchy. His mention of both Dvalishvili and O’Malley as potential future opponents is a calculated move; he understands that positioning himself among the elite can exponentially increase his chances for a title shot. With O’Malley’s name bandied about as the “people’s champion,” a clash between them would not only attract significant attention but could also elevate Sandhagen’s profile immensely.
Cory, currently ranked No. 6, recognizes that his fight against Figueiredo is not just about the present; it’s a pivotal moment to influence the fans and decision-makers in the UFC. He is keenly aware that with victories come visibility, and he needs to make a compelling case for why he should be next in line for a title opportunity. For him, this isn’t merely positioning; it’s about proving to the world that he belongs with the best.
A Call to the Fans
During his interviews, Sandhagen has echoed sentiments that resonate deeply with fans. The yearning for him to face both Dvalishvili and O’Malley illustrates not just a desire for spectacular fights, but also a recognition of the talent and tenacity he brings to the Octagon. Fans are hungry for bouts that showcase skill, perseverance, and heart — qualities Sandhagen possesses in abundance.
He articulates his plans for 2023 with a mixture of ambition and realism: “Hopefully, I’ll get in three fights, and one of them will be a championship fight.” His positive outlook reflects a fighter who’s not afraid to set lofty goals. The challenge ahead may be daunting, but the journey within the UFC has always been definitive for those willing to stake their claim with grit and determination.
Cory Sandhagen is on the brink of a profoundly significant chapter in his career. Every punch he throws, every kick he lands, and every strategy employed against Figueiredo will reverberate through the division and could lock him in as one of the top names in title discussions. As the fight approaches, all eyes will be on him—nothing short of brilliance will suffice, but knowing Sandhagen, he is more than ready to deliver.