Cory Sandhagen has positioned himself as a key figure in the UFC’s bantamweight division, a landscape dominated recently by unpredictable outcomes and intense rivalries. With Merab Dvalishvili crowned champion after his latest victory over Umar Nurmagomedov, the pressure is mounting for next challengers. Dvalishvili, boasting a record of 19-4, showcased his resilience and strategy during UFC 311, outmaneuvering Nurmagomedov to retain his title. Sandhagen, despite his own recent loss to Nurmagomedov, remains undeterred and poised, believing he possesses the tools necessary to dethrone the champion.
Dvalishvili’s impressive performances against elite fighters like Sean O’Malley and Petr Yan further solidify his standing in the division. His ability to neutralize top contenders with decisive victories demonstrates not only his grappling acumen but also his stamina in prolonged exchanges. Sandhagen, however, approaches the challenge with a different mentality. He acknowledges Dvalishvili’s accomplishments but emphasizes the concept of styles making fights. In his view, the right stylistic match-up is what ultimately determines victory in the octagon.
In his recent comments, Sandhagen has openly analyzed his battles and those of his rivals. He recognizes the skill set that Umar Nurmagomedov demonstrated against him, conceding that he was outclassed in certain aspects. This humility plays a crucial role in his preparation; rather than dismissing the teachings of his previous losses, he integrates them into his tactical framework. Sandhagen posits that effective footwork and energy-efficient defense against takedowns could be the keys to outmaneuvering Dvalishvili. He insists that controlling space will be essential in neutralizing the champion’s relentless pressure.
While it may not be traditional for fighters to shy away from calling for title shots directly, Sandhagen chooses to express confidence in his capabilities without overstepping. He is aware of the hierarchy in the division and understands the necessity for perseverance. “I don’t like doing that,” he says regarding the typical callout culture of the UFC. Instead, his focus lies on the intricacies of his technique, particularly in footwork—claiming to possess one of the best in the division. This assertion is underpinned by his understanding of effective range control, a skill he is willing to leverage in a potential match against Dvalishvili.
As the bantamweight division continues to shift and evolve, Cory Sandhagen remains a formidable contender, blending humility with ambition. His pathway is uncertain, but one thing is clear: he firmly believes that, if given the opportunity, he can disrupt the status quo and reconfigure the rankings of the division. The upcoming months may hold a pivotal moment for Sandhagen, as he awaits his next opportunity to demonstrate that his unique style and strategic insight can finally unlock the defenses of Merab Dvalishvili.