🥋 Cory Sandhagen’s Dominant Victory in Des Moines Brings Him Closer to UFC Title Shot
On a thrilling night in Des Moines, Cory Sandhagen delivered a powerful performance that may have just punched his ticket to a UFC bantamweight title opportunity.
In the main event of UFC Fight Night on May 3rd at the Wells Fargo Arena, Sandhagen squared off against former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo. The matchup was intense from the start, but things took a dramatic turn in the second round.
🔒 A Tactical Battle on the Ground
During a scramble on the canvas, both fighters fought for dominant leg positions. Sandhagen, dressed in white and blue Venum shorts, managed to lock in a firm leg hold on Figueiredo. As Figueiredo tried to twist out of the position, an audible pop came from his knee — the fight was soon waved off as Sandhagen followed with a quick barrage of strikes.
The result: TKO win (injury) for Sandhagen.
After the fight, Sandhagen confidently said he never felt in danger during the leg exchange and emphasized his technical control in grappling situations.
💥 Statement Win Over a Former Champion
This win is significant. Beating a seasoned fighter like Figueiredo — who holds two UFC titles at flyweight — only strengthens Sandhagen’s case for a bantamweight title shot.
He made his intentions clear post-fight:
“I think I deserve a title shot next regardless.”
🏆 Climbing the Bantamweight Ladder
Sandhagen’s record speaks for itself:
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4 wins in his last 5 fights
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Recent victories over Song Yadong, Marlon Vera, and Rob Font
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Earned a $50,000 Performance Bonus in Des Moines
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Now tied for 5th-most finishes in UFC bantamweight history
Though he suffered a loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in 2024, this recent comeback win proves he’s still among the elite in the division.
⏳ What’s Next?
Sandhagen is now looking toward the bantamweight title fight between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley, scheduled for June 7. He’s willing to wait his turn but firmly believes he should face the winner.
Currently rank ed #4 in the UFC bantamweight division, Sandhagen continues to show he has both the skill and determination to become world champion. Whether standing or grappling, he’s proven time and again that he belongs with the best.
📌 Summary:
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Event: UFC Fight Night, May 3, Des Moines
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Result: Cory Sandhagen defeats Deiveson Figueiredo via TKO (injury)
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Impact: Moves closer to bantamweight title contention
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Next Target: Winner of O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili
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UFC 2025, Cory Sandhagen, Deiveson Figueiredo, UFC Fight Night Des Moines, UFC Bantamweight, UFC News, MMA Results, UFC Title Shot, Sean O'Malley, Merab Dvalishvili, UFC Highlights, Mixed Martial Arts
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