On May 3rd, 2024, the storied Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, will be alive with anticipation as former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo throws down against Cory Sandhagen in a highly anticipated bantamweight clash. This event marks the UFC’s long-awaited return to Iowa after a 25-year absence, adding a significant layer of excitement to what promises to be a thrilling night of fights. The stakes are high as both fighters target a rebound from previous defeats, turning this match-up into a critical juncture for their respective careers.
Figueiredo’s Quest for Redemption
Deiveson Figueiredo, reigning with a professional record of 24 wins, four losses, and one draw, comes into this contest carrying the weight of expectations. After suffering a decision loss to the formidable Petr Yan, Figueiredo is hungry to prove that he still belongs among the elite in the bantamweight rankings. Currently positioned as the UFC’s No. 5 bantamweight, he has a chance to reclaim his status and push for another shot at the title with a win over Sandhagen. Figueiredo’s journey has been tumultuous; he transitioned to bantamweight after losing his flyweight title to Brandon Moreno in 2023. His mixed bag of results (3-1) since the move showcases both potential and vulnerability, making this fight pivotal for his aspirations.
Sandhagen’s Determined Comeback
Opposing Figueiredo is Cory Sandhagen, a dynamic striker with a knack for theatrical displays in the octagon. With a professional record of 17 wins and 5 losses, Sandhagen is determined to shake off the cobwebs from his recent defeat to Umar Nurmagomedov, which halted his momentum and snapped a three-fight winning streak. As the UFC’s No. 4 bantamweight, he understands that a loss here could mean a significant setback in his pursuit of championship gold. Sandhagen’s fighting style, characterized by creativity and precision, means fans can expect an exhilarating performance, especially as he looks to reassert himself against a seasoned champion like Figueiredo.
Heavyweight Co-Main Event: Nickal vs. de Ridder
The night’s intrigue does not end with the main event. In the co-main event, we’ll witness a potentially explosive match-up featuring three-time NCAA Division I national champion Bo Nickal against Reinier de Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE Championship. Nickal, who remains unbeaten at 7-0, is touted as a future star in the UFC after a debut that sparked considerable buzz—yet his recent victory garnered criticism for being overly cautious. He faces de Ridder, a 19-2 competitor with a strong grappling pedigree and a prior reign as ONE’s middleweight and light heavyweight champion. This clash pits Nickal’s wrestling prowess against de Ridder’s submission skills, promising a compelling contest for fans.
A New Era in Bantamweight Fights
As the UFC gears up for this monumental fight card, the implications stretch beyond individual victories or losses. Both Figueiredo and Sandhagen are at a crossroad, not just in their careers but for the entire bantamweight division. Their fight could redefine trajectories, either establishing a clear contender for the championship or solidifying both fighters as formidable obstacles in a crowded fight landscape. The stakes are high, and the drama is palpable. As the world tunes in, only one question remains: who will seize the moment and etch their name into UFC history?