Former interim bantamweight title challenger, Cory Sandhagen is slated to make his return to the Octagon later this summer, booking a headlining clash with Russian contender, Umar Nurmagomedov in the main event of UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi at the Etihad Arena in the United Arab Emirates on August 4.
Sandhagen, the current number two ranked bantamweight contender, has been sidelined since he headlined UFC Nashville last August, landing a decision win over Rob Font in a short-notice clash – with Nurmagomedov forced from a clash due to an injury setback.
Himself returning from injury following a failed main event against Sandhagen in a March return, Nurmagomedov, the current number nine ranked contender, improved to 17-0 with a decision win over debutante, Bekzat Almakhan.
Cory Sandhagen rebooks title eliminator with Umar Nurmagomedov
News of Sandhagen’s reworked clash with Nurmagomedov was confirmed by the promotion on their official X account this Monday morning.
“They’ll meet for a 5 round battle at #UFCAbuDhabi,” UFC posted. “@CorySandhagen vs. @UNmgdv”
They'll meet for a 5 round battle at #UFCAbuDhabi
@CorySandhagen vs @UNmgdv@VisitAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | #InAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/zvUWC9UuMK
— UFC (@ufc) May 6, 2024
17-4 as a professional, Sandhagen had turned in consecutive decision victories over the above-mentioned, Font, and most recent title challenger, Marlon Vera last year – which came off the back of a knockout win over surging contender, Song Yadong the annum prior.
Competing for interim bantamweight spoils on short-notice at UFC 267, Sandhagen suffered a decision defeat to former undisputed champion, Petr Yan in his most recent visit to Abu Dhabi.
During his tenure with the Dana White-led organization, the previously mentioned, Nurmagomedov has racked up notable victories over the likes of Brian Kelleher, and a stunning knockout triumph over Raoni Barcelos.
UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi takes place on August 4. from the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with Cory Sandhagen versus Umar Nurmagomedov slated as the official headlining bout.
Who wins at UFC Abu Dhabi this summer: Cory Sandhagen or Umar Nurmagomedov?