Cory Sandhagen stands at a pivotal crossroads in his MMA career, fueled by an unwavering determination to secure a UFC title shot by 2025. Following a narrow split decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in a bantamweight title eliminator, Sandhagen (17-5 MMA, 10-4 UFC) is poised to reclaim his status as a top contender. His upcoming fight against former champion Deiveson Figueiredo (24-4-1 MMA, 13-4-1 UFC) on May 3 at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, isn’t just another bout; it’s a crucial stepping stone for the 32-year-old fighter.
In the fickle world of MMA, where fortunes can change in the blink of an eye, Sandhagen’s aspirations aren’t merely about securing victories. They are driven by the desire for recognition. With current bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili likely set for a rematch with Sean O’Malley, the competition is heating up. Sandhagen believes this scenario presents him with a golden opportunity to interject himself into the title conversation.
A Unique Positioning
Interestingly, Sandhagen finds himself in a unique position that could work to his advantage. His rankings place him as one of the few top contenders who has yet to face either Dvalishvili or O’Malley, which puts him in a rare category. Fighters frequently find themselves at the mercy of matchmaking, but Sandhagen sees his chance to shine. He remarked, “I’m the only guy that hasn’t fought Merab that’s kind of going to be in the talks here pretty soon.” This statement underscores his intent: he is not merely content to be a name in the mix but is seeking prominence—the spotlight that comes with notable victories.
His confidence in his fighting abilities is palpable. Sandhagen firmly believes in his advantages over Figueiredo, asserting, “I’ve grown so much as a fighter.” This self-awareness is crucial. It reflects not only his technical development but his mental fortitude—a trait that distinguishes elite fighters from those who merely excel. Sandhagen’s past experiences will be instrumental as he prepares to exploit Figueiredo’s vulnerabilities while mitigating the Brazilian’s threat of grappling and striking.
Fan Desires Fueling Ambitions
The buzz surrounding a prospective matchup with O’Malley reveals more than just personal ambition; it encapsulates fan expectations. As fighters evolve, so, too, does the marketability of their matchups. Enthusiastic fans have been clamoring for a Sandhagen-O’Malley clash, a notion that delights Sandhagen. “I also think the entire world wants to see me and O’Malley fight each other,” he remarked, highlighting the synergy between athlete aspirations and spectator excitement.
This sentiment indicates a pressing reality within MMA—fighters must not only win fights but generate narratives that engage the audience. As the sport continues to grow, the intersection between athletic performance and showmanship becomes ever more significant. Sandhagen gets that and seems poised to make a statement against Figueiredo that not only reignites his title aspirations but also enthralls the fan base.
Looking Ahead
Optimism abounds in Sandhagen’s camp. He lays out his vision for the year: “I think this year is going to be a really good year for me. Hopefully I’ll get in three fights and one of them will be a championship fight.” The ambitious plan reflects a blend of realistic assessment and lofty aspirations. In the fast-moving world of the UFC, a single fight can drastically alter a fighter’s trajectory, and the urgency is palpable.
Crucially, should Sandhagen secure a decisive victory against Figueiredo, he positions himself at the frontline of the bantamweight division, primed for either a championship shot or a high-stakes matchup that could lead to it. His tactical approach, anticipating paths to victory against both Dvalishvili and O’Malley should they win their upcoming rematch, suggests that he is not just a hopeful fighter but a strategic thinker prepared to adapt to the ebbs and flows of the competitive landscape.
Cory Sandhagen’s narrative is one of resilience, ambition, and strategy. He is on a mission to reclaim his place among the elite, and with a little luck and the right performance, he could well find himself in a championship bout sooner than he anticipates.