Sandhagen Vs. Figueiredo: A Deep Dive Into UFC Fight Night Predictions

Axel S�rensen

6 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Cory Sandhagen's Strengths and Weaknesses

Cory Sandhagen, a formidable contender in the bantamweight division, brings a unique skillset to the octagon. Understanding his strengths and weaknesses is crucial for predicting his performance against Moreno.

Strengths:

• Exceptional Striking Precision and Power: Sandhagen's striking is a thing of beauty. His accuracy, combined with surprising power, makes him a constant threat on the feet. He consistently lands significant strikes, often setting up combinations that leave opponents reeling. His striking versatility is a significant asset.
• Elite Level of Cardio and Stamina: Sandhagen consistently maintains a high pace throughout his fights, rarely showing signs of fatigue. This incredible cardio allows him to pressure opponents for the full duration of the fight, a major advantage in a grueling five-round bout. This endurance is a key factor in his success.
• Versatile Striking Game with Effective Kicks and Elbows: He's not just a boxer; Sandhagen incorporates devastating kicks and elbows into his striking arsenal, keeping opponents guessing and adding another layer to his offensive threat. His ability to switch up his striking game keeps opponents off balance.
• Experience Against High-Level Competition: Sandhagen has faced some of the best fighters in the bantamweight division, accumulating valuable experience and honing his skills against elite competition. This experience is invaluable in a high-stakes fight like this one.
• Improved Takedown Defense: While historically a weakness, Sandhagen has demonstrably improved his takedown defense. He's shown a greater ability to sprawl and defend against takedown attempts in recent fights, adding another layer of confidence to his overall game.

Weaknesses:

• Can Be Susceptible to Grappling from Strong Wrestlers: Despite improvements, Sandhagen's grappling remains a potential area of vulnerability against top-tier wrestlers. If an opponent can effectively take him down, Sandhagen's ground game could be exploited.
• Ground Game Needs Further Improvement: While his striking is exceptional, his ground game requires further development. A strong wrestler could potentially neutralize his striking advantage by controlling the fight on the mat. This is a key area to watch for in this matchup.
• Potential Vulnerability to Powerful Counter-Punchers: While he's effective at initiating strikes, Sandhagen may be susceptible to powerful counter-punchers who can capitalize on his aggressive style.

Brandon Moreno's Strengths and Weaknesses

Brandon Moreno, the former UFC Flyweight Champion, presents a completely different challenge for Sandhagen. His strengths lie primarily in his grappling and submission game.

Strengths:

• Unparalleled Grappling and Submission Skills: Moreno's grappling is world-class. His submission game is incredibly dangerous, with a variety of techniques that can quickly end a fight. He's a master of controlling the fight on the ground.
• Exceptional Cardio and Fight IQ: Similar to Sandhagen, Moreno possesses exceptional cardio and fight IQ. He can maintain a high pace, adapt his strategy, and make intelligent decisions throughout the fight. His tactical awareness is crucial.
• Aggressive and Relentless Fighting Style: Moreno never gives up, constantly pressuring his opponents and looking for openings. This relentless style can wear down opponents and create opportunities for submissions or ground-and-pound.
• Proven Ability to Finish Fights: Moreno has a proven track record of finishing fights, both by submission and strikes. This ability to end the fight decisively is a major asset.
• Experience as a Former UFC Flyweight Champion: His experience at the highest level, including a championship reign, gives him a mental edge and the confidence to perform under pressure.

Weaknesses:

• Can Be Susceptible to Powerful Strikers: Moreno's striking, while effective, might struggle against exceptionally powerful strikers who can keep the fight standing. Sandhagen's powerful striking poses a real threat here.
• Might Struggle Against Opponents with Superior Reach: Moreno's shorter reach can be a disadvantage against opponents with a significant reach advantage, making it harder to land strikes and get inside.
• Requires Strong Wrestling Defense Against Takedown Attempts: While his wrestling is strong offensively, his defensive wrestling needs to be sharp against a powerful wrestler.

Fight Style Matchup and Prediction

This fight presents a fascinating stylistic clash. Sandhagen's powerful striking and cardio versus Moreno's grappling and submission expertise. A key aspect will be whether Moreno can successfully take Sandhagen down and control him on the ground. Sandhagen's improved takedown defense will be crucial.

Prediction: This fight is incredibly close to call. However, I predict that Sandhagen will win by unanimous decision. While Moreno possesses dangerous submission skills, Sandhagen's improved takedown defense and superior striking power are likely to be the deciding factors. Moreno's relentless pressure and grappling threat will keep Sandhagen honest, but I believe Sandhagen will be able to consistently outpoint Moreno over five rounds by utilizing his reach advantage and landing effective strikes. A potential turning point would be if Moreno secures an early takedown and controls the fight on the ground.

Betting Odds and Value Bets

Betting odds will vary across different sportsbooks, so it's essential to shop around for the best lines. At the time of writing, Sandhagen is often favored slightly, but the odds are likely to fluctuate as the fight draws closer. Look for value bets on the method of victory. A bet on Sandhagen by decision might offer good value given his superior striking and improved takedown defense.

Responsible Gambling Reminder: Always gamble responsibly. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.

Conclusion

The Sandhagen vs. Moreno fight promises to be an exciting and closely contested battle between two elite fighters with contrasting styles. Sandhagen’s powerful striking and improved takedown defense will be key to victory, but Moreno’s relentless grappling and submission skills could prove decisive. Understanding each fighter’s strengths and weaknesses is critical for making informed predictions. Are you ready to make your own informed Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo UFC Fight Night predictions? Use our analysis to refine your betting strategy and enjoy the exciting fight! Remember to gamble responsibly.