Cory Sandhagen has agreed to Umar Nurmagomedov‘s challenge and proposed they fight at UFC 303 on June 29 during the UFC’s International Fight Week.
Cory Sandhagen’s ready for a fight. Undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov’s challenge? Accepted. But Sandhagen’s not just accepting; he’s setting the stage. He’s got a date, a place, and an event in mind.
Nurmagomedov’s recent win over Bekzat Almakhan at UFC Vegas 87 was nothing short of impressive. Post-victory, he threw down the gauntlet. He wanted the UFC to rebook his match with Sandhagen. The one that was supposed to happen at UFC Nashville. The one that didn’t because of Nurmagomedov’s injury.
Sandhagen? He didn’t just sit around. He dominated Rob Font instead. Now, he’s back from an injury of his own. And he’s got his sights set on Nurmagomedov. UFC 303 on June 29, that’s the date. International Fight Week, that’s the event.
Here’s what Sandhagen had to say: “You want to call for higher opponents and choose your date? Come on, Umar. International Fight Week against me, brother.” He tweeted this in response to Nurmagomedov during UFC 299.
Sandhagen’s been on a roll since his loss to Petr Yan at UFC 267. That was back in October 2021. He was vying for the interim champ title. Didn’t get it. But he didn’t let that stop him. He’s won three straight since then. A stoppage win over Song Yadong. A dominant decision win over Marlon Vera. Both main event bouts.
Nurmagomedov? He’s got a perfect record. Seventeen pro bouts, seventeen wins. His UFC career? Just as impressive. A 5-0 start.
So, the stage is set. Sandhagen. Nurmagomedov. UFC 303. June 29. International Fight Week. It’s going to be a show.