Predicting UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen Vs. Figueiredo – A Detailed Analysis

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Cory Sandhagen's Strengths and Weaknesses

Striking Prowess

Sandhagen possesses exceptional striking prowess, characterized by pinpoint accuracy, significant power, and a diverse arsenal of techniques. His striking is a significant weapon in his arsenal.

• Impressive Knockouts: Sandhagen's knockout victory over Frankie Edgar showcased his devastating power, while his technical striking dismantled Marlon Moraes.
• Versatile Striking Game: He effectively utilizes a range of techniques, including spinning attacks, lightning-fast jabs, and powerful body shots.
• Defensive Weaknesses: While his offense is elite, Sandhagen's striking defense occasionally shows vulnerabilities, leaving him susceptible to counters.

Grappling and Wrestling

While primarily a striker, Sandhagen demonstrates respectable grappling and defensive wrestling skills.

• Takedown Defense: He's shown a capacity to defend takedowns effectively, preventing opponents from controlling the fight on the ground.
• Submission Defense: His submission defense is generally solid, though he hasn't faced the elite grappling talent Moreno possesses.
• Offensive Grappling Limitations: Sandhagen's offensive grappling remains a less-developed aspect of his game, primarily used defensively.

Cardio and Fight IQ

Sandhagen boasts exceptional cardio and fight IQ.

• Exceptional Stamina: He consistently maintains a high pace throughout his fights, rarely showing signs of fatigue.
• Tactical Adjustments: Sandhagen demonstrates impressive adaptability, making strategic adjustments in response to his opponent's tactics.
• Ring Generalship: His ring generalship is evident in his ability to control the distance and dictate the pace of the fight.

Brandon Moreno's Strengths and Weaknesses

Submission Expertise

Moreno's reputation precedes him as one of the most skilled submission artists in the UFC.

• Impressive Submission Record: His numerous submission victories highlight his mastery of various grappling techniques.
• Ground Control: He excels at controlling opponents on the ground, securing advantageous positions for submissions.
• Submission Variety: Moreno is dangerous from various positions, utilizing rear-naked chokes, guillotines, and other submissions effectively.

Striking and Cardio

Moreno's striking is effective, though not as dominant as Sandhagen's.

• Solid Striking: He lands consistent strikes, maintaining a high pace and utilizing combinations effectively.
• Cardio: Moreno possesses excellent cardio, able to maintain a relentless pace throughout all three rounds.
• Power Striking: While not a knockout artist, his constant pressure and accumulation of strikes can be debilitating.

Defensive Capabilities

Moreno’s defensive wrestling is a crucial aspect of his game.

• Takedown Defense: He's demonstrated good takedown defense, resisting takedowns from numerous opponents.
• Defensive Striking: He effectively uses movement and head movement to evade strikes.
• Vulnerability to Power: His striking defense might be challenged by Sandhagen's power and precision.

Matchup Analysis: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo

Style Clash

This fight presents a compelling stylistic clash. Sandhagen's aggressive striking will be countered by Moreno's elite grappling and submission skills.

• Striking vs. Grappling: The key question is whether Sandhagen can keep the fight standing and utilize his striking advantage, or if Moreno can successfully take the fight to the ground and secure a submission.
• Takedown Defense Crucial: Sandhagen's takedown defense will be crucial in determining the fight's outcome.

Key Factors Determining the Winner

Several key factors will determine the winner:

• Sandhagen's Takedown Defense: His ability to avoid takedowns will largely dictate his success.
• Moreno's Striking Accuracy: If Moreno can land significant strikes, it could wear down Sandhagen.
• Late-Round Stamina: The fighter who maintains his stamina throughout the fight will have a significant advantage.

Prediction and Reasoning

Prediction: Brandon Moreno by Decision.

• Reasoning: While Sandhagen possesses superior striking, Moreno's superior grappling and relentless pressure will likely dictate the fight's pace and flow. Moreno’s ability to take Sandhagen down and control him on the ground, even if intermittently, is likely to be a decisive factor. His exceptional cardio ensures he can maintain a high pace, making him the more likely winner over the full three rounds.

Conclusion

Cory Sandhagen's impressive striking and cardio are countered by Brandon Moreno's elite grappling and submission skills, and relentless pressure. This UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo promises a thrilling contest. Our prediction favors Moreno securing a decision victory due to his superior grappling and stamina. However, Sandhagen possesses the power to end the fight early if he can keep it standing. What are your predictions for UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo? Share your thoughts below!