Cory Sandhagen, currently navigating the complex and competitive world of mixed martial arts, is visualizing his ambition for a UFC title shot by 2025. This ambition is not merely a whispered dream but a strategic goal as he gears up for a crucial fight against Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC on ESPN 67, set to take place on May 3 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Following a disappointing unanimous decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov, Cory is acutely aware of the stakes involved in his upcoming match. With a professional record of 17 wins and 5 losses, including 10 victories within the UFC, Sandhagen knows that a win against a seasoned fighter like Figueiredo could unequivocally realign his trajectory in the bantamweight division.
Sandhagen’s confidence stems not only from his earlier experiences but from a deeper understanding of his evolving skills as a fighter. He believes wholeheartedly in his growth and adaptation, calling himself a better version of the fighter who faced Nurmagomedov. His confidence isn’t unfounded—he’s expressed that he has multiple advantages against Figueiredo, a fighter known for his explosive knockout power and crafty submission skills. By framing this fight as a pivotal moment, Sandhagen emphasizes his commitment to harnessing every ounce of talent he possesses to secure his place among the elite in the division.
Strategic Insight into Contenders
As he looks beyond the Figueiredo showdown, Sandhagen is acutely aware of the broader landscape of bantamweight championship drama. Current champion Merab Dvalishvili is expected to engage in a rematch with Sean O’Malley, a fight that will undoubtedly generate substantial fanfare. As he stands on the sidelines, Sandhagen sees this moment as a golden opportunity to inject his name into the title conversation. He has yet to face either Dvalishvili or O’Malley, both of whom are top contenders that carry their own fan followings. The notion that the MMA community is eager to see matchups against these fighters creates an electrifying pressure—one that Sandhagen seems poised to embrace.
His assessment of Dvalishvili and O’Malley’s potential bout reveals a strategic mindset. He acknowledges that irrespective of who wins that fight, he brings a unique narrative to the division. Sandhagen’s belief in his marketability and fighting style is palpable; he understands that the clash between him and O’Malley, in particular, would not only be a compelling matchup but also a matchup that fans would rally behind, thus amplifying his position in the division. This awareness of public sentiment is crucial, as popularity can often sway promotional considerations in a sport that thrives on fan engagement.
A Vision for Victory
In his own words, Sandhagen envisions 2023 as a year bursting with potential—one in which he could compete thrice, ideally culminating in a championship showdown. While he admits that this ambition may come off as optimistic, it underscores a fighter’s mindset—a blend of unabashed confidence and the pragmatic understanding of the fight game’s unpredictable nature. The fact that he is calling for at least one title shot within the year reflects not just ambition, but a strategic vision that many fighters lack.
The dynamics of the upcoming fight with Figueiredo cannot be ignored. Sandhagen expresses a keen ability to excel against aggressive fighters who actively hunt for finishes. His analytical approach to Figueiredo’s fighting style points to a thoughtful preparation and a calculated game plan. The stakes are high, and Cory’s confidence pivotally hinges on his ability to execute a distinctive and compelling fight narrative against a well-rounded opponent, thereby showcasing his skill set to fans and matchmakers alike.
Sandhagen’s self-awareness regarding his compatibility with both Dvalishvili and O’Malley solidifies his position as an intriguing wildcard in the title picture moving forward. His current ranking as No. 6 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie bantamweight standings further solidifies his credibility, but it is his unique perspective on his upcoming challenges that truly highlights his evolution from hopeful contender to a strategic rival ready to seize the moment. If Sandhagen can capitalize on the current momentum, he could effectively sculpt a path that not only leads to a title shot but also cements his legacy in the annals of UFC history.