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UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo – The Battle for Bantamweight Supremacy
May 3rd, 2025 – A Night of High-Stakes Combat
The UFC returns with another explosive Fight Night, headlined by a bantamweight clash that promises fireworks. Cory Sandhagen takes on Deiveson Figueiredo in a five-round main event that could determine the next title contender at 135 lbs.
This isn’t just another fight—it’s a collision of styles, a test of wills, and a potential Fight of the Year candidate. Sandhagen, the dynamic striker with an unorthodox arsenal, faces Figueiredo, the former flyweight king who has looked terrifying since moving up in weight.
With both men eyeing a shot at the bantamweight gold, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Let’s break down this epic showdown, analyze the key matchups on the card, and predict how the night might unfold.
Main Event Breakdown: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo – Who Claims the Throne?
Cory Sandhagen: The Sniper with a Killer Instinct
Record: 18-4 (UFC: 11-3)
Key Wins: Rob Font (UD), Marlon Vera (SD), Song Yadong (TKO)
Key Losses: Petr Yan (UD), T.J. Dillashaw (SD), Aljamain Sterling (SUB)
Sandhagen is one of the most creative strikers in the UFC. His movement, angles, and unpredictable offense make him a nightmare to prepare for. He’s a master at using feints, spinning attacks, and sharp elbows to dismantle opponents.
However, his Achilles’ heel has been elite wrestlers. Against Yan and Sterling, he struggled with pressure and grappling. But against fellow strikers, he’s nearly untouchable.
Why He Wins: If he keeps this fight standing, he can pick Figueiredo apart with volume and precision. His reach (70″) and height (5’11″) give him a significant advantage in striking exchanges.
Deiveson Figueiredo: The Former Flyweight King Hunting New Gold
Record: 23-3-1 (UFC: 12-3-1)
Key Wins: Brandon Moreno (x2), Alex Perez (SUB), Rob Font (KO)
Key Losses: Brandon Moreno (x2), Alexandre Pantoja (UD)
Figueiredo’s move to bantamweight has been nothing short of spectacular. After a storied rivalry with Moreno at 125 lbs, “Deus da Guerra” (God of War) has looked even more dangerous at 135. His power is still devastating, his grappling is elite, and his aggression is relentless.
His knockout of Rob Font in his bantamweight debut sent shockwaves through the division. Now, he’s one win away from a title shot.
Why He Wins: If he can close the distance and drag Sandhagen into deep waters, his power and grappling could be the difference. Sandhagen has been hurt before—Figueiredo only needs one clean shot.
Fight Prediction: A Striker vs. Power Grappler Chess Match
This fight hinges on two factors:
- Can Sandhagen keep it standing? If he uses his footwork and stays at range, he can outpoint Figueiredo over five rounds.
- Can Figueiredo land the bomb? If he times a big shot or gets top control, Sandhagen could be in trouble.
Prediction: Sandhagen by unanimous decision (48-47). He’ll use his movement and volume to edge out Figueiredo, but it won’t be easy. Expect a war.
Co-Main Event: Jailton Almeida vs. Alexander Romanov – Heavyweight Collision
Two massive heavyweights clash in a fight that could end in seconds. Jailton Almeida (21-2) is a submission machine, while Alexander Romanov (18-2) is a brute with crushing top control.
- Almeida’s Path to Victory: Get the fight to the mat and hunt for a submission (likely a rear-naked choke).
- Romanov’s Path to Victory: Use his raw strength to grind Almeida against the cage and land heavy ground-and-pound.
Prediction: Almeida by submission in Round 2.
Other Must-Watch Fights on the Card
Michel Pereira vs. Kevin Holland – The People’s Main Event
Two of the most entertaining fighters in the UFC throw down in what could be the most chaotic fight of the night. Expect spinning kicks, wild scrambles, and possibly a knockout.
Prediction: Holland by TKO in Round 3.
Rafael Fiziev vs. Drew Dober – Striker’s Delight
A guaranteed stand-up war. Fiziev’s technical Muay Thai vs. Dober’s iron chin and power punches. Someone is getting dropped.
Prediction: Fiziev by unanimous decision.
Tatsuro Taira vs. Tim Elliott – Flyweight Showdown
Taira (16-0) is a future title contender, but Elliott is a crafty veteran who can spoil the hype.
Prediction: Taira by submission in Round 1.
Final Thoughts: Why You Can’t Miss This Card
UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo is stacked from top to bottom. With title implications, guaranteed action, and potential show-stealing performances, this is a must-watch event.
Will Sandhagen outclass Figueiredo and secure his shot at gold? Or will Figueiredo prove that he’s the true boogeyman of the bantamweight division?
Tune in on May 3rd, 2025, to find out!
What’s your prediction for Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo? Let us know in the comments!