The MMA world turned its eyes to Abu Dhabi for UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov, an event that delivered 13 electrifying bouts at the Etihad Arena. With a mix of knockouts, submissions, and hard-fought decisions, fans were treated to an unforgettable night of fights broadcast live on ABC and ESPN 2.
Main Event: Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Cory Sandhagen
In the highly anticipated main event, Umar Nurmagomedov showcased his superior grappling and striking skills against Cory Sandhagen, securing a unanimous decision victory. Nurmagomedov's relentless pressure and precise technique overwhelmed Sandhagen, earning scores of 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46 from the judges.
Co-Main Event: Shara Magomedov vs. Michał Oleksiejczuk
Shara Magomedov dominated Michał Oleksiejczuk in the co-main event, also winning via unanimous decision. Magomedov's striking and clinch work proved too much for Oleksiejczuk, who struggled to find his rhythm throughout the bout.
Main Card Highlights
Marlon Vera vs. Deiveson Figueiredo: Former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo moved up to bantamweight and secured a unanimous decision win over Marlon Vera. Figueiredo's speed and power were on full display, earning him a successful debut in the 135 lbs division.
Tony Ferguson vs. Michael Chiesa: Michael Chiesa handed Tony Ferguson another setback, submitting him with a rear naked choke at 3:44 of the first round. Chiesa's grappling prowess was too much for Ferguson, who has now lost six straight fights.
Mackenzie Dern vs. Lupita Godinez: Mackenzie Dern bounced back with a unanimous decision victory over Lupita Godinez. Dern's superior grappling and striking versatility secured her the win in this strawweight clash.
Joel Alvarez vs. Elves Brener: Joel Alvarez impressed with a third-round TKO over Elves Brener, utilizing devastating knees to ground and pound at 3:36 of the final round. Alvarez's striking accuracy was the key to his victory.
Preliminary Card Highlights
Alonzo Menifield vs. Azamat Murzakanov: Azamat Murzakanov defeated Alonzo Menifield with a second-round TKO, finishing the fight with powerful punches at 3:18.
Mohammad Yahya vs. Kauê Fernandes: Kauê Fernandes stopped Mohammad Yahya with ground-and-pound punches at 4:45 of the first round, earning a TKO victory.
Shamil Gaziev vs. Don'Tale Mayes: Shamil Gaziev outworked Don'Tale Mayes to win via unanimous decision in this heavyweight bout.
Guram Kutateladze vs. Jordan Vucenic: Guram Kutateladze secured a unanimous decision win over Jordan Vucenic, showcasing his striking and grappling skills.
Victoria Dudakova vs. Sam Hughes: In a close contest, Sam Hughes edged out Victoria Dudakova via split decision, displaying great resilience and determination.
Jai Herbert vs. Rolando Bedoya: Jai Herbert earned a unanimous decision victory over Rolando Bedoya, using his technical striking to control the fight.
Sedriques Dumas vs. Denis Tiuliulin: Sedriques Dumas defeated Denis Tiuliulin via unanimous decision, showing his all-around skillset in this middleweight clash.
UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi delivered a night full of action and memorable performances. From Nurmagomedov's dominant main event victory to the thrilling prelims, fans were left buzzing with excitement. Stay tuned to Black Belt Magazine for more thrilling fights and unforgettable moments in the world of MMA.