ABU DHABI: Umar Nurmagomedov claimed a unanimous decision victory over second-ranked Cory Sandhagen in the headlining bout of UFC Fight Night at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi on Saturday.
The Russian is undefeated and ranked 10th in the bantamweight division. He has emerged as a prominent contender in the bantamweight division.
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The bout featured Nurmagomedov (18-0), who entered the octagon with an unblemished record and a reputation for finishing fights, against Sandhagen (17-5), who was on a three-fight winning streak and recognized for his striking prowess.
Sandhagen focused on using his striking to outmaneuver Nurmagomedov, while Nurmagomedov aimed to capitaliSe on his diverse skill set to secure the win.
The Dagestani fighter began by blending striking with wrestling. He quickly executed a single-leg takedown and took Sandhagen’s back. Although Sandhagen escaped and got back to his feet, Nurmagomedov’s early control set the tone for the fight.
As the round ended, Nurmagomedov completed another takedown just before the bell, showcasing his dominance and setting a clear strategy for the fight.
In the second round, Umar Nurmagomedov kept up the pressure by landing a body kick and exchanging leg kicks with Sandhagen. He continued to use his wrestling effectively, scoring another takedown and briefly controlling Sandhagen on the ground.
While Sandhagen tried to create space and use his striking, the Dagestani responded with effective counter-strikes.
In the third round, Sandhagen fought harder with his striking to counter Nurmagomedov’s wrestling. However, Nurmagomedov kept control by scoring another takedown.
Sandhagen tried to escape and fight back, but Nurmagomedov’s control and striking kept him ahead.
In the fourth round, both fighters demonstrated their resilience. Nurmagomedov landed a series of strikes and maintained pressure. Sandhagen tried to turn the fight in his favour but was met with effective counters from Nurmagomedov, who secured another takedown late in the round.
In the final round, Umar Nurmagomedov remained in control. He managed another takedown and held Sandhagen down for most of the round. Sandhagen tried to fight back with elbows and quick movements, but Nurmagomedov stayed on top and landed solid strikes.
The judges’ scorecards showed Nurmagomedov’s dominance throughout the fight, giving him a unanimous decision with scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46. The win boosts Nurmagomedov’s standing as a leading contender in the bantamweight division and positions him for a potential title shot against the winner of the upcoming fight between Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili.
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In other matches from the event, Shara Magomedov defeated Michal Oleksiejczuk via unanimous decision, Deiveson Figueiredo earned a unanimous decision victory over Marlon Vera, and Michael Chiesa secured a first-round submission win against Tony Ferguson.
