Cory Sandhagen has expressed a keen interest in facing Petr Yan following UFC Fight Night 248, where Yan took home a decisive victory against Deiveison Figueiredo. Yan’s triumph marked his second consecutive win, bringing his record to an impressive 18-5 MMA and 10-4 UFC. The unanimous decision showcased not only Yan’s skill but also his ability to adapt his fighting style to neutralize opponents effectively. Sandhagen, a seasoned fighter himself with a record of 17-5 MMA and 10-4 UFC, witnessed the fight closely and noted Yan’s technical prowess, particularly in distinguishing himself from Figueiredo’s chaotic fighting style.
Sandhagen’s analytical comments regarding Yan’s performance refer back to their previous encounter at UFC 267 for the interim bantamweight title. In that battle, Sandhagen showcased moments of brilliance, winning the first round before ultimately succumbing to Yan’s striking precision, which led to a unanimous decision loss. It was a pivotal moment for Sandhagen, highlighting both his potential and the areas that needed improvement if he ever hoped to reclaim his position in title contention. A rematch with Yan, who appears to be redefining his skills after recent victories, would present an opportunity for Sandhagen to avenge his earlier defeat and revitalize his title aspirations.
As Sandhagen puts it, the current state of the bantamweight division feels somewhat stagnant, filled with uncertainty and shifting dynamics. Following his setback against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC on ABC 7, where Sandhagen was unable to secure a victory, a rematch with Yan becomes increasingly essential. Lying one spot under Yan in the UFC rankings, Sandhagen is acutely aware of the competition and the stakes involved. The pressure to command attention within a division known for its depth and talent is ever-present, and a rematch with Yan could solidify his status as a serious contender once again.
The anticipation surrounding Sandhagen’s aspirations has caught the attention of UFC personalities, including former champion Daniel Cormier, who supports the idea of a rematch. Sandhagen’s comments reflect a mix of impatience and eagerness to understand how the UFC plans to proceed post-fight. He hopes for clarity in the division and a fight lined up, whether it’s against Yan or another formidable opponent. As he awaits news about the direction the bantamweight division will take, Sandhagen remains steadfast in his ambition to bounce back and reclaim the title challenge that is still within his reach.
The stage is set for a compelling narrative within the bantamweight division, and Cory Sandhagen’s determined focus on Petr Yan is a clear sign that the rivalry is not yet over. A rematch could galvanize both fighters’ paths moving forward, adding another chapter to the dynamic landscape of UFC bantamweight action.