On May 3, the UFC will make its long-awaited return to Iowa, over two decades since the last notable event in the state. This momentous occasion will be marked by a highly anticipated bantamweight showdown between former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo and Cory Sandhagen at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. As a fight card feels incomplete without its compelling narratives, this matchup offers more than just statistical significance; it features two fighters desperate to redefine their paths and reclaim their standing among the elite.
Figueiredo: A Fighter on the Brink
Deiveson Figueiredo’s journey has been anything but conventional. With a professional record of 24 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw, the No. 5 ranked bantamweight is on a redemption mission after his recent decision loss to former champion Petr Yan. Figueiredo’s transition from flyweight, where he was a fierce competitor and champion, to bantamweight hasn’t been seamless. However, with a record of 3-1 in the higher weight class, he stands on the precipice of title contention again. The upcoming fight against Sandhagen serves as a litmus test—not only for Figueiredo’s ability to bounce back but also for his potential to make another run at championship glory.
Sandhagen: The Comeback Kid
Standing in Figueiredo’s way is Cory Sandhagen, equally motivated to emerge victorious. Currently ranked No. 4 in the bantamweight division with a record of 17-5, Sandhagen is licking his wounds after a disappointing decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov that interrupted what was shaping up to be a sensational three-fight winning streak. Known for his dynamic striking and unpredictability in the octagon, the “Sandman” is poised to let loose a flurry of attacks against Figueiredo. Both fighters are aware that victory is crucial not just for rankings, but for momentum in their careers. This makes the stakes higher, promising an electrifying clash that fans cannot miss.
The Co-Main Event: A Battle for Supremacy
As if the main event wasn’t enough to get fans excited, the UFC Fight Night also features a co-main event that could redefine the middleweight division. Three-time NCAA champion Bo Nickal, who remains undefeated at 7-0, will face former ONE Championship two-division titleholder Reinier de Ridder, now ranked No. 13 in the UFC’s middleweight category. Nickal has quickly made a name for himself in the UFC, despite criticism following a less-than-stellar performance against Paul Craig. This time, Nickal aims to capitalize on the opportunity to silence the doubters while De Ridder looks to reaffirm his dominance following a successful stint with ONE Championship.
The Future Awaits
Both of these promising fighters have ambitions that extend beyond this single bout; they each seek to carve out their legacies while showcasing the versatility and depth of talent within the bantamweight and middleweight divisions. As they prepare to throw down in Iowa, the world will be watching—not just for the outcome, but for the incredible potential that is poised to unfold within the octagon. In a sport where every moment counts, a win now could mean everything for these fighters’ careers in the highly competitive landscape of the UFC. The May 3 event has every ingredient necessary to be a landmark night in MMA history, igniting new rivalries and setting the stage for championships yet to come.