Breaking News: In a stunning upset, UFC’s #5 ranked Bantamweight contender Cory ‘The Sandman’ Sandhagen has brutally taken out the #1 ranked flyweight champion Deiveson ‘Deus da Guerra’ Figueiredo with a knee injury at UFC Des Moines, [%TODAY’S_DATE%]. The viscous blow came in the second round of the main event, leading to Figueiredo’s first-ever stoppage loss, and catapulting Sandhagen into title shot talks.
UFC Des Moines Recap: Cory Sandhagen Shines, and Future Trends in Men’s MMA
In a thrilling night of fights, UFC on ESPN 67 in Des Moines, Iowa, delivered some intriguing results that could shape the future of men’s MMA. Let’s dive into the key takeaways, upcoming trends, and what it means for the sport.
Sandhagen Steamrolls Figueiredo
In the main event, Cory ‘The Sandman’ Sandhagen proved why he’s a force to be reckoned with, knocking out former two-time flyweight champ Deiveson Figueiredo in the first round. Sandhagen’s precise striking and freakish athleticism made for a dominant performance that sent shockwaves through the division.
Did you know? Sandhagen has now finished his last six victories, showcasing his increasingly dangerous arsenal. đź’Ą
Trends and Predictions for Men’s MMA
Saturday’s event highlighted several trends that could shape the future of men’s MMA.
1. The 135-pound division is wide open
With Figueiredo’s loss, the flyweight and bantamweight divisions are ripe for the taking. Sandhagen, along with other contenders like Henry Cejudo and Aljamain Sterling, could vie for the title next.
2. Strikers rule
From Sandhagen’s precise striking to Marlon Vera’s devastating elbows, knockout artists are making waves in the sport. Expect striking prowess to remain a crucial skill set for MMA fighters moving forward.
3. Grapple-heavy fighters may struggle
While grappling will always be essential in MMA, fighters who rely solely on takedowns and ground control may find it harder to remain competitive. Sandhagen’s ability to nullify Figueiredo’s takedowns and control the fight on the feet showed the value of adaptive, well-rounded fighters.
FAQ
Q: Where does Figueiredo go from here?
A: Figueiredo will likely get another shot at the title with a win or two, given his star power and past performances.
Q: Who’s next for Sandhagen?
A: Sandhagen has called out Sterling, and their fight could decide the next title challenger at 135 pounds.
Call to Action
What did you think of UFC Des Moines? Who do you think will challenge for the title next? Let us know in the comments, and explore more fight coverage on 247sports.new! 💬🥊