On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the UFC returns to Des Moines, Iowa, for the first time in 25 years, headlined by a pivotal bantamweight clash between Cory Sandhagen and Deiveson Figueiredo. This five-round main event at Wells Fargo Arena carries significant implications for the 135-pound division, with both fighters seeking to rebound from recent setbacks and reassert their positions among the elite. Here, we make our Cory Sandhagen vs Deiveson Figueiredo prediction before Saturday’s action.
Cory Sandhagen vs Deiveson Figueiredo Preview
Cory Sandhagen (17-5) enters the octagon aiming to bounce back from a unanimous decision loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in August 2024. Prior to that, Sandhagen had compiled a three-fight win streak, including victories over Rob Font, Marlon Vera, and Song Yadong. Known for his unorthodox striking, fluid movement, and relentless pace, Sandhagen’s 5’11” frame and 70-inch reach provide him with a distinct advantage in range and versatility.
Deiveson Figueiredo (24-4-1), the former flyweight champion, transitioned to the bantamweight division in 2023 and quickly made an impact with wins over Rob Font, Cody Garbrandt, and Marlon Vera. However, his momentum was halted by a unanimous decision loss to Petr Yan in November 2024. Standing at 5’5″ with a 68-inch reach, Figueiredo compensates for his size disadvantage with explosive power, aggressive grappling, and a penchant for finishing fights.
This matchup is an interesting one, with Sandhagen’s dynamic stand-up game pitted against Figueiredo’s submission prowess and knockout power. The outcome may hinge on Sandhagen’s ability to maintain distance and control the tempo, while Figueiredo will look to close the gap and capitalize on any openings for a finish.
Betting Insights
According to Sportzino, here are the betting odds for this fight, along with some key info on both competitors:
- Current Odds: Cory Sandhagen (-500), Deiveson Figueiredo (+375)
- Sandhagen’s Record: 17 wins, 5 losses
- Figueiredo’s Record: 24 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw
- Sandhagen’s Notable Wins: Rob Font, Marlon Vera, Song Yadong
- Figueiredo’s Notable Wins: Rob Font, Cody Garbrandt, Marlon Vera
Sandhagen’s status as the favorite reflects his reach advantage, striking acumen, and experience against top-tier bantamweights. Bettors may find value in Figueiredo’s underdog status, considering his finishing ability and championship pedigree.
Before this fight, you can get your hands on a bonus to bet on this matchup at Sportzino. Click the button below or go to our Sportzino review to get started.
Cory Sandhagen vs Deiveson Figueiredo Prediction
Sandhagen By Decision (-164)
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Figueiredo’s transition to bantamweight should continue to hurt him after his loss to Petr Yan last time out.
- Sandhagen’s size and reach should be a major factor in him winning this fight.
Analyzing the stylistic matchup, Sandhagen’s height, reach, and movement are likely to pose significant challenges for Figueiredo. If Sandhagen can effectively utilize his jab, kicks, and lateral movement to keep Figueiredo at bay, he can accumulate points and potentially wear down his opponent over five rounds.
Figueiredo’s best chance lies in closing the distance and engaging in close-quarters exchanges, where he can unleash his power and seek takedowns or submissions. However, Sandhagen’s improved grappling defense and ability to scramble may neutralize these attempts.
Considering the factors at play, the prediction leans toward Sandhagen securing a unanimous decision victory. His reach, volume striking, and cardio should enable him to control the fight’s pace and distance, minimizing Figueiredo’s opportunities to land significant offense.
Prediction: Cory Sandhagen defeats Deiveson Figueiredo via unanimous decision.
