Weight Class: Bantamweight (135 lbs)
Record: 17-4-0
Nickname: The Sandman
Team: Elevation Fight Team
Height: 5’11”
Reach: 70 inches
Stance: Switch
Born: April 20, 1992 (age 33) – Aurora, Colorado, USA
Biography
Cory Sandhagen emerged from the Colorado fight scene as a lanky, cerebral striker with a knack for creativity and grit inside the Octagon. A product of Elevation Fight Team, Sandhagen balances a sharp, tactical fight IQ with dynamic offense and slick movement. After entering the UFC in 2018, he quickly built a reputation as one of the most dangerous and unpredictable contenders in the bantamweight division. Whether he’s throwing spinning attacks or grinding out five-round decisions, Sandhagen brings a unique blend of finesse and ferocity.
UFC Career Highlights
- Notable Wins:
- Marlon Moraes (TKO, Spinning Wheel Kick & Punches)
- Frankie Edgar (KO, Flying Knee)
- Rob Font (Unanimous Decision)
- Marlon Vera (Unanimous Decision)
- John Lineker (Split Decision)
- Fight of the Night Bonuses: 2
- Performance of the Night Bonuses: 2
Statistical Overview
- Strikes Landed Per Minute: 5.90
- Striking Accuracy: 44%
- Strikes Absorbed Per Minute: 3.95
- Takedown Defense: 63%
- Average Fight Time: 13:00 minutes
- Finish Rate: 65% (7 KO/TKOs, 3 submissions)
Fighting Style
Sandhagen’s style is a puzzle few have managed to solve. He blends fluid footwork with unorthodox angles and strikes, switching stances mid-combo and using a variety of kicks, elbows, and knees to keep opponents off-balance. While known for his striking, Sandhagen has shown an evolving grappling game, particularly in recent fights, where he’s incorporated takedowns and top control to round out his skill set. His endurance and adaptability make him dangerous in every round.
Next Fight: Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo – UFC Fight Night
In a high-stakes clash, Sandhagen is set to welcome former flyweight king Deiveson Figueiredo to the elite tier of the bantamweight division. While Figueiredo brings power and aggression, Sandhagen’s reach, movement, and diverse striking could be key to neutralizing the Brazilian’s forward pressure. Expect a technical chess match with bursts of violence as both men look to stake their claim for a title shot..
Conclusion
Cory “The Sandman” Sandhagen remains one of the most cerebral and entertaining bantamweights in the UFC. With a refined skill set and renewed focus, his path to UFC gold may only be one or two wins away. Keep your eyes on this technician—he might just be the next champion.
