‘Problem for Anyone in Division’- Khabib Nurmagomedov All Praises for ‘Real Deal’ Cory Sandhagen

The UFC Vegas 32 event was a mixed bag of an event for the UFC. More than the performances of the fighters, the judging took away the major chunk of the discussion. The main event between Cory Sandhagen and the returning T.J. Dillashaw came under the scanner after the latter picked up a controversial decision win.

The other decision that became a hot topic was the split decision victory for Maycee Barber over Miranda Maverick. The latter dominated two-thirds of the match, only to lose in the end.

But if we keep aside the judging and focus on the spectacular performances, hardly anyone can look beyond Cory Sandhagen. The ‘Sandman’ produced a striking masterclass against one of the greatest bantamweights of all time.

His assault almost put an end to Dillashaw’s aim for the title glory. The latter had to stick to clinch and canvas grind to labor out a victory for himself. Although the loss would be a shocker and demoralizing for Sandhagen, he could take some solace from the inspiring words of ‘The Eagle’ Khabib Nurmagomedov.

The former UFC lightweight champ was all praise for the ‘Sandman’. He disagreed with judges scoring more for Dillashaw. According to him, Sandhagen won three out of the five rounds. ‘The Eagle’ wrote, “I think Sandhagen 3:2. Because of damage.”

The Russian also added that Sandhagen poses an actual threat to everyone in the division. “But anyway Sanhagen (Sandhagen) is a real deal. He is a problem for anyone in (the) division,” ‘The Eagle’ wrote.

What’s next for Cory Sandhagen after this loss?

Sandhagen (14-3) saw his two-fight winning streak snapped. A win could have launched him straight into a title fight next, but the loss hasn’t taken away everything from him. He could still put his hat on for the title challenge if he picks up some key victories going ahead.

READ MORE: “Easy Money for Me!” – Henry Cejudo Open for a Rematch Against T.J. Dillashaw

A possible fight with the loser of Sterling vs Yan 2 could be in the talks, going ahead. The duo are almost set to collide later this year, it could provide a chance for ‘Sandman’ to hone his skills and present his case against the loser of the title fight.

Another splendid setting could be against a rampaging Rob Font. The latter is on a winning spree and could finally see his long-term aspirations of fighting for the title with a win over Sandhagen. The latter would be a perfect match for the former, considering their style of approach. Although Font may wait for the title shot and pass this one.

The bantamweight division is certainly heating with some exciting matches in the laps of the future.

Do you agree with Khabib’s comments on Sandhagen?

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