Nurmagomedov Outduels Sandhagen in Unanimous Decision Win
In a highly competitive matchup at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Umar Nurmagomedov showcased his prowess by earning a unanimous decision victory over Cory Sandhagen. The judges awarded Nurmagomedov scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46, reflecting a dominant yet hard-fought performance.
The bout had its intense moments from the start, with both fighters demonstrating their striking abilities in the opening round. Nurmagomedov and Sandhagen exchanged leg kicks and punches as they sought to establish control. Nurmagomedov made an early assertion by executing a successful takedown and taking Sandhagen’s back. However, Sandhagen’s resilient defense allowed him to fend off Nurmagomedov's hooks and return to striking range.
Throughout the fight, Sandhagen showed commendable resilience and skill, particularly in his ability to stuff subsequent takedown attempts by Nurmagomedov. When brought to the canvas, Sandhagen adeptly defended or scrambled free, ensuring he remained a formidable opponent.
Despite Sandhagen's efforts, it was Nurmagomedov who managed to control the fight’s pace. Both fighters found success in their striking as the rounds wore on, but Nurmagomedov's growing confidence became apparent. By the second round, he believed he could also best Sandhagen in striking, and for much of the fight, he did just that.
"He was more tough than I expected. This guy is really tough," Nurmagomedov said after the fight. "I think I deserved the win and feel like I beat him in every round. I tried to take him down, but he had good defense. I have to believe in myself. For the second round, I began to feel I could beat him on striking, too. And I did it."
Sandhagen’s corner repeatedly encouraged him to increase the pressure, but he struggled to establish a decisive advantage in striking. As the fight entered the later rounds, it was clear that Nurmagomedov's confidence and control were edging him closer to victory.
In the final half of the fifth round, Nurmagomedov landed a pivotal takedown, grounding Sandhagen and maintaining control until the fight’s conclusion. This final act of dominance solidified the judges' decision, resulting in a unanimous victory for Nurmagomedov.
Reflecting on his performance, Nurmagomedov expressed his readiness for future challenges. With sights set on a title shot, he called out the winner of the upcoming bout between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O'Malley. "It doesn't matter for me, who is going to be next. Just give me the title shot. Merab or O'Malley. I'm coming for you," Nurmagomedov declared.
With this victory, Nurmagomedov continues to rise in the ranks, aiming to solidify his status as a top contender. His performance in Abu Dhabi not only underscored his multifaceted skill set but also demonstrated his capability to adapt and dominate against high-caliber opponents. As he awaits his next challenge, the UFC world keenly anticipates his quest for the title.