Sandhagen v Nurmagomedov UFC betting preview & predictions

The UFC returns to Etihad Arena on Yas Island in the United Arab Emirates this Saturday for a likely contender-defining bantamweight matchup between Cory Sandhagen and exciting Russian prospect Umar Nurmagomedov. Read on to see our in-depth fight preview and betting predictions.

Sandhagen v Nurmagomedov fight analysis

Cory Sandhagen vs Umar Nurmagomedov

Cory Sandhagen (17-4-0) fought for the interim bantamweight belt in 2021, coming up short against Petr Yan in a competitive bout. The 32-year-old has since worked his way back toward contender status with three straight wins over Rob Font, Marlon Vera, and Song Yadong, and he appears a more astute tactical fighter since suffering the disappointment.

Sandhagen can fare poorly with the judges when he falls into an overly defensive posture, but he has all the tools required to one day claim the 135-pound belt. He stands tall for the division at 5’11’’ and will look to control the range war with looping jabs and straight kicks. He is also effective in close and boasts seven knockouts as a professional.

Umar Nurmagomedov (17-0-0) brings an undefeated record into this contest and is priced accordingly with online bookmakers. The Russian native is coming off wins against Bekzat Almakhan, Raoni Barcelos, and Nate Maness, none of whom are anywhere near the class of this opponent. The 28-year-old carries huge expectations and is thought to be the champion-in-waiting by many pundits.

Nurmagomedov has never competed beyond three rounds, which may prove telling against an opponent with extensive five-round experience. His standup game is not elite, but on the ground he works heavy strikes from top position. With seven submission wins on his record, Nurmagomedov will be looking to take this contest to the mat.

Sandhagen v Nurmagomedov predictions

Sandhagen is the second-ranked fighter in the division and has battled elite competition, yet he is priced like a rank outsider. It is easy to be swept along by the hype of an unbeaten prospect, and at the price, Sandhagen might be worth a small investment.

If you fancy Nurmagomedov, backing him via submission might deliver the best value. If you remain unconvinced of the Russian’s champion potential, Sandhagen’s huge odds are very appealing.

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