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The highly anticipated showdown between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov is officially locked in for the main event at UFC Abu Dhabi on August 3, promising fans an electrifying battle in the bantamweight division.
Originally slated for a matchup in 2023, the fight was postponed due to Nurmagomedov's shoulder injury, leading to Sandhagen's dominant victory over Rob Font. Now, with both fighters in prime condition, they are geared up for a five-round war that headlines the UFC's return to Abu Dhabi this summer.
Sandhagen, riding a three-fight winning streak, has solidified his position as a top contender in the 135-pound weight class. His recent triumphs over formidable opponents like Font, Marlon Vera, and Song Yadong have placed him on the cusp of a title shot, making this bout against Nurmagomedov crucial for his championship aspirations.
On the other side, Nurmagomedov has been a revelation since joining the UFC, boasting a flawless 5-0 record inside the octagon. As the cousin of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, Umar carries a legacy of excellence and has swiftly risen through the ranks with impressive victories, including his most recent triumph over Bekzat Almakhan.
The clash with Sandhagen presents Nurmagomedov with his toughest challenge yet, offering a platform to prove his mettle against an elite opponent and stake his claim as a future title contender in the bantamweight division.
The UFC's return to Abu Dhabi adds an extra layer of excitement to this highly anticipated matchup, promising fight fans a night to remember with a main event that pits two of the division's finest against each other.