The excitement is palpable as the UFC returns to Iowa for the first time in 25 years, with a thrilling Fight Night planned at Wells Fargo Arena. On May 3, the octagon will come alive with a pivotal bantamweight clash between Deiveson Figueiredo and Cory Sandhagen, two top-tier fighters eager to reclaim their spots in the division’s title race. This event signifies not just a rare visit to Iowa, but also a chance for both athletes to demonstrate their skill and resilience following recent setbacks.
Figueiredo: A Champion’s Resolve
Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo, renowned for his powerful striking and grappling prowess, faces a crucial moment in his career. Currently ranked as the No. 5 bantamweight, Figueiredo comes into this fight with a professional record of 24 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. After suffering a tough decision loss to Petr Yan, he knows that a victory against Sandhagen could catapult him back into the title conversation. Notably, after moving up from flyweight and losing his championship to Brandon Moreno, Figueiredo has shown resilience with a 3-1 record in the bantamweight division. He is determined to leverage his experience and skills to reclaim his status as a champion.
Sandhagen: Quest for Redemption
Equally eager for redemption is Cory Sandhagen, ranked No. 4 in the bantamweight division with a record of 17 wins and 5 losses. Sandhagen’s last fight was a disappointment, suffering a decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov that halted a promising streak of three consecutive victories. As he steps into the octagon, Sandhagen carries not just the weight of his recent defeat but also the expectations of fans who believe his striking versatility and tactical acumen can elevate him to championship glory. This fight offers Sandhagen the chance to showcase his evolution as a fighter and reclaim his momentum within the competitive landscape of the UFC.
Co-Main Event: Disciples of Grappling Face Off
The co-main event will see the rising star Bo Nickal, a three-time NCAA Division I national champion, pitted against Reinier de Ridder, a former two-division champion from ONE Championship. Nickal, currently undefeated with 7 wins, is generating buzz as a future champion after an impressive UFC debut and a string of finishes, despite facing some criticism for his last performance against Paul Craig. His matchup with de Ridder, who holds a record of 19 wins and 2 losses, presents a significant challenge. De Ridder, known for his grappling expertise, poses a threat with his submission skills, having already secured impressive victories in the UFC.
A Clash of Styles and Ambitions
As Figueiredo prepares to face Sandhagen, and Nickal steps into the spotlight against de Ridder, the night promises to be filled with tension and skillful displays of mixed martial arts. Each fighter carries not only their personal ambitions but also the hopes of their respective supporters. The stage is set for a night of intensity, strategy, and potential for history-making moments. Both main event fighters are not just competing for personal redemption; they’re also vying to solidify their legacies in a sport where every match can be a stepping stone towards greatness. As spectators, we are curated to witness an event that could shift the dynamics of these fighters’ careers forever.