UFC Abu Dhabi: Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov: Full video highlightsÂ
Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov headlined UFC Abu Dhabi in a bantamweight number-one contender bout.
Sandhagen has undoubtedly separated himself as one of the most dangerous strikers at 135 pounds. 'Sandman' holds the number two ranking in the bantamweight division following three consecutive wins against Song Yadong, Marlon 'Chito' Vera, and Rob Font.
As for Nurmagomedov, he's been highly touted as a future UFC champion. The well-round Russian has looked impressive in his first five promotional fights (5-0) and looks to continue his winning ways against his toughest opponent yet.
Sandhagen and Nurmagomedov are fighting for massive stakes, as both have allegedly been promised a title shot if they emerge victorious at UFC Abu Dhabi. The winner of this main event is expected to fight Sean O'Malley or Merab Dvalishvili, who will battle on Sept. 14 at UFC 306.
Take a look at the action from the UFC Abu Dhabi main event featuring Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagoemdov below.
Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov video highlights
Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov finish their warmups for the UFC Abu Dhabi main event.
Nurmagomedov makes his walk to the octagon with Khabib Nurmagomedov following close behind.
Sandhagen makes his walk to the octagon.
Sandhagen and Nurmagomedov are in the octagon and ready to fight.
Bruce Buffer introduces Nurmagomedov and Sandhagen.
Nurmagomedov slips in round one. The commentators believe he's fighting with "nervous energy" for his first main event.
Nurmagomedov ends round one with a takedown. Sandhagen denied several attempts early, but the undefeated Russian continued pursuing and took the fight to the ground multiple times in the first frame.
Nurmagomedov manages to take down Sandhagen more than once in round two, including an outside trip to end the frame. The world-class bantamweights are close in the striking departments, so the takedowns could be swaying the judges.
Nurmagomedov secures another late takedown in the third frame. These rounds are extremely close. The result could be decided in the championship rounds
Sandhagen's striking is making this fight closer than some fans believe.
Nurmagomedov isn't backing down from a striking battle.
Nurmagomedov takes Sandhagen to the ground again to end the round.
Khabib Nurmagomedov and Javier Mendez give Umar Nurmagomedov advice before round five of the UFC Abu Dhabi main event.
Nurmagomedov ends the fight with top control.
The UFC Abu Dhabi main event goes to the scorecards. Nurmagomedov has his hand raised by unanimous decision (49-46 x2 and 50-45). The undefeated Russian undoubtedly deserves a title shot. He showcased his well-rounded fighting skills and five-round cardio in his most impressive performance yet.
Nurmagomedov confirms his plans to fight for the winner of Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili next for UFC bantamweight gold.