By editor 
A Thrilling Night in Des Moines
Fans of mixed martial arts were treated to an unforgettable evening on May 3, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa. The UFC Fight Night event, headlined by a bantamweight clash between Cory Sandhagen and Deiveson Figueiredo, marked the UFC’s triumphant return to the city after a 25-year absence. The night was filled with exhilarating fights, tactical brilliance, and unexpected plot twists that kept spectators enthralled.
The Main Event: A Battle for Redemption and Dominance
The highlight of the night was the bantamweight showdown between Cory Sandhagen and Deiveson Figueiredo. Both fighters entered the octagon with impressive records and a fierce determination to emerge victorious. Sandhagen, known as “The Sandman,” sought redemption after four previous losses in the UFC, each to fighters who later challenged for the bantamweight title. This fight was his opportunity to reclaim his status and stake a claim in the title picture.
Figueiredo, a former flyweight champion, aimed to make a significant impact in the bantamweight division. The stage was set for an epic confrontation, and the fighters delivered a performance that lived up to the hype.
The First Round: Feeling Out the Opponent
The opening round saw both fighters cautiously exploring each other’s defenses, neither able to gain a decisive advantage. The round ended with both fighters relatively unscathed, setting the stage for a more intense second round.
The Turning Point: Strategy and Pain
In the second round, Sandhagen’s strategic approach began to pay dividends. He focused on breaking down Figueiredo’s lead leg, landing heavy blows that seemed to wear down his opponent. However, it was Sandhagen’s unique leg lock that ultimately sealed the victory. As the fight progressed, Figueiredo suffered an apparent knee injury in a 50-50 position. The pain was evident as Figueiredo shouted in agony, forcing the referee to call a stop to the fight.
The official result was a TKO victory for Sandhagen at 4:08 of the second round. The crowd erupted in cheers as “The Sandman” celebrated his hard-fought win. This victory not only redeemed Sandhagen’s previous losses but also positioned him as a serious contender for the UFC bantamweight title.
Beyond the Main Event: A Night of Excitement
While the main event stole the show, the rest of the card was equally entertaining. The middleweight bout between Reinier de Ridder and Bo Nickal was another highlight of the night. De Ridder dominated the fight, securing a TKO victory at 1:53 of the second round. This win further cemented de Ridder’s status as one of the top middleweights in the UFC.
The prelims also featured several exciting matchups, with fighters showcasing their skills and determination. The night was a testament to the depth of talent in the UFC, with each fight offering something unique for the fans.
The Aftermath: A Shift in the Bantamweight Division
The UFC Fight Night event had a significant impact on the UFC’s bantamweight division. Sandhagen’s victory sent a clear message to the rest of the division: he is a force to be reckoned with. His strategic approach and relentless pressure made him a formidable opponent, and his win over Figueiredo was a statement of intent.
For Figueiredo, the loss was a setback, but it also provided an opportunity for reflection and growth. As a former flyweight champion, he has the skills and experience to bounce back. His performance in the first round showed that he is still a dangerous fighter, and with the right adjustments, he can return to the top of the bantamweight division.
The Road Ahead: A Competitive Landscape
The UFC bantamweight division is one of the most competitive in the sport, with a deep pool of talented fighters. Sandhagen’s victory has added another layer of intrigue to the division. With his impressive performance, he has earned a shot at the title, but he will have to navigate through a field of elite fighters to get there.
Fighters like Aljamain Sterling, Petr Yan, and Sean O’Malley are all contenders for the title, and each brings their own unique skills and strategies to the octagon. The road to the title will be challenging, but Sandhagen has shown that he has the heart and the skill to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
The UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo event was a night to remember. From the thrilling main event to the exciting prelims, the night was filled with action and drama. Cory Sandhagen’s victory over Deiveson Figueiredo was a highlight of the night, showcasing his strategic approach and relentless pressure. This win has positioned him as a serious contender for the UFC bantamweight title, and fans are eagerly anticipating his next move.
As the UFC continues to deliver high-quality events, the future of the bantamweight division looks brighter than ever. With talented fighters like Sandhagen, Figueiredo, and others, the division is poised for exciting matchups and unforgettable moments. The UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo event was a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and the passion of its fans. The night in Des Moines will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the UFC’s history, one that set the stage for future greatness in the bantamweight division.