Deiveson Figueiredo Vs. Cory Sandhagen: UFC Des Moines Main Event Set For May 3rd

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Figueiredo's Path to Bantamweight

Deiveson Figueiredo, a former UFC Flyweight Champion, is making a significant move up to the bantamweight division. His impressive reign at flyweight, marked by devastating knockout power and an aggressive fighting style, cemented his place as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC. However, this transition presents unique challenges. The weight cut to bantamweight is notoriously difficult, and its impact on his performance remains to be seen.

• Former UFC Flyweight Champion: Figueiredo's dominance at flyweight speaks volumes. His knockout power and relentless pressure made him a nightmare matchup for many opponents.
• Known for Devastating Power and Aggressive Fighting Style: Figueiredo is not known for his technical brilliance, rather he overwhelms his opponents with power punches and a relentless pace.
• Challenges of Making the Bantamweight Limit: The weight cut to 135 pounds will be a significant test. Will the rigorous weight cut impact his strength and explosiveness?
• Potential Impact of Weight Cut on Performance: This is a crucial factor. A successful weight cut is essential for Figueiredo to perform at his peak.
• Analysis of his Strengths and Weaknesses at Bantamweight: At bantamweight, his power remains a major advantage, but his grappling defense will be severely tested against a more skilled wrestler.

Sandhagen's Rise Through the Bantamweight Ranks

Cory Sandhagen has steadily climbed the bantamweight ranks, showcasing exceptional striking skills and a well-rounded game. His dynamic movement, pinpoint accuracy, and diverse striking arsenal make him a dangerous opponent for anyone. While his striking is undoubtedly his greatest asset, he'll need to shore up his grappling defense to fully contend for the title.

• Top Contender in the Bantamweight Division: Sandhagen consistently delivers exciting fights and has earned his place among the elite at 135 pounds.
• Exceptional Striking Ability and Diverse Attack: His striking is both powerful and precise, making him difficult to predict and counter.
• Strengths in Movement and Counter-Striking: Sandhagen excels at using his footwork to create angles and land devastating counters.
• Potential Weaknesses in Grappling Defense: While his striking is elite, his grappling defense is a potential vulnerability that Figueiredo could exploit.
• Analysis of his Recent Performances and Potential Strategies: Sandhagen's recent performances demonstrate a consistent improvement in his all-around game, hinting at a potentially dominant performance.

Style Matchup and Predicted Outcome

The Figueiredo vs. Sandhagen matchup presents a fascinating stylistic clash. Figueiredo's aggressive, power-punching style will be tested against Sandhagen's superior movement and diverse striking. The key matchup will likely be Figueiredo's takedown defense against Sandhagen's potential takedown attempts.

• Comparison of Striking vs. Grappling Styles: This is a clear contrast. Figueiredo's power striking versus Sandhagen's technical striking and movement.
• Potential for a Striking Battle or Grappling Exchanges: We could see a striking battle early, but if Sandhagen can take Figueiredo down, the fight could change dramatically.
• Key Matchups to Watch (e.g., Figueiredo's takedown defense vs. Sandhagen's takedown attempts): How Figueiredo handles Sandhagen's movement and striking will be critical. Similarly, Sandhagen's takedown defense will be crucial.
• Predicted Outcome Based on Stylistic Analysis and Fighters’ Recent Performances: While Figueiredo's power is a threat, Sandhagen's superior movement and striking versatility give him a slight edge. A Sandhagen victory by decision seems plausible.
• Mention of Betting Odds (if available) and their Significance: Betting odds can provide further insight into the perceived likelihood of different outcomes. (Insert betting odds here if available)

Implications for the Bantamweight Division

The outcome of this fight has significant implications for the UFC bantamweight division. A victory for either fighter would drastically alter the landscape, pushing them closer to a title shot and influencing the rankings. Aljamain Sterling and Sean O'Malley are the current top contenders and the result of this fight will heavily impact their potential paths to the championship.

• Impact on the Rankings: The winner will almost certainly move up considerably in the rankings.
• Potential Title Shot Implications for the Victor: This fight is a crucial stepping stone towards a title shot for the winner.
• Discussion of Future Opponent Possibilities for the Winner: A win could position either fighter for a bout with the champion or another top contender.

Conclusion

The UFC Des Moines main event featuring Deiveson Figueiredo and Cory Sandhagen promises a thrilling clash of styles. While Figueiredo's knockout power poses a constant threat, Sandhagen’s technical striking and movement seem to give him a slight advantage. The fight's outcome will have a substantial impact on the bantamweight division's hierarchy.

Don't miss the explosive main event of UFC Des Moines on May 3rd! Tune in to witness Deiveson Figueiredo and Cory Sandhagen battle it out for bantamweight supremacy. Follow the event and keep up-to-date on all the UFC action for more exciting fights and matchups like this one!