UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo

A Clash of Titans

In the electrifying world of mixed martial arts, few spectacles rivet audiences like a high-stakes showdown between elite fighters. The UFC Fight Night event featuring Cory Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo, held at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, on May 3, 2025, was a testament to this. This main event delivered a rollercoaster of skill, strategy, and unexpected twists, keeping fans glued to their seats.

The Anticipation

The buildup to this fight was nothing short of electric. Cory Sandhagen, renowned for his technical finesse and aggressive fighting style, was on a mission to redeem himself after a decisive loss to Umar Nurmagomedov. This matchup against Deiveson Figueiredo, a former two-time UFC Flyweight Champion, was his chance to reassert his dominance in the bantamweight division and secure a title shot. Figueiredo, meanwhile, was eager to bounce back from a series of setbacks and reclaim his throne in the UFC.

The Main Event

The main event began with both fighters showcasing their signature styles. Sandhagen, true to his reputation, was aggressive from the get-go, pressing Figueiredo and seeking openings. Figueiredo, known for his grappling prowess, attempted to take the fight to the ground early on. However, Sandhagen’s superior striking and clinch work kept the fight standing for much of the first round.

The second round saw a dramatic shift. Sandhagen continued to dominate, landing powerful strikes and controlling the pace. As the round progressed, the fighters found themselves in a grappling entanglement. It was during this moment that the fight took an unexpected turn. Figueiredo, while attempting to reverse the position, suffered a knee injury. The pain was evident as he shouted in agony, prompting the referee to intervene. Sandhagen, sensing an opportunity, quickly capitalized, reversing positions and forcing Figueiredo to submit. The referee ruled the fight a TKO win for Sandhagen due to injury, marking a significant victory for the American fighter.

Standout Moments

Several key moments stood out in this fight:

Sandhagen’s Striking Prowess

From the outset, Sandhagen’s striking was impeccable. He landed several powerful shots that kept Figueiredo on the defensive, setting the tone for the rest of the fight. His ability to control the distance and clinch effectively neutralized Figueiredo’s attempts to take the fight to the ground.

Figueiredo’s Grappling Struggles

Despite his efforts to take the fight to the ground, Figueiredo struggled to find an opening. Sandhagen’s clinch work and ability to control the distance were crucial in keeping the fight standing. This highlighted Figueiredo’s need to improve his striking and defensive strategies.

The Decisive Injury

The pivotal moment came in the second round when Figueiredo’s knee gave out. This injury not only ended the fight but also underscored the unpredictability of MMA, where a single misstep can change the course of a bout. It was a stark reminder of the physical toll the sport can take on athletes.

Sandhagen’s Tactical Genius

Sandhagen’s ability to capitalize on Figueiredo’s injury showcased his versatility and tactical acumen. His quick reversal and submission attempt were a testament to his well-rounded skill set. This moment highlighted his potential as a future champion in the bantamweight division.

Shifting the Division’s Landscape

This victory solidifies Sandhagen’s position as a top contender in the bantamweight division. His performance against Figueiredo was a masterclass in MMA, demonstrating his striking, grappling, and tactical prowess. Sandhagen has already called for a title shot, targeting the winner of the upcoming Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley bout. If he continues on this trajectory, a title shot seems inevitable.

For Figueiredo, the loss is a setback, but it also provides an opportunity for reflection and growth. His grappling skills are undeniable, but this fight highlighted areas where he needs to improve, particularly in his striking and defensive strategies. This setback could be the catalyst for a comeback, pushing him to refine his skills and return stronger.

A Night to Remember

The UFC Fight Night event in Des Moines was a night to remember. Cory Sandhagen’s dominant performance against Deiveson Figueiredo not only showcased his skills but also underscored the unpredictable and thrilling nature of MMA. As the UFC continues to deliver high-quality fights, events like this serve as a reminder of why fans around the world are captivated by the sport. With Sandhagen’s victory, the bantamweight division is set for an exciting future, and fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups as the year progresses. The night in Des Moines was a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in the UFC’s storied history.