32 Facts About Cory Sandhagen

Early Life and Background

Cory Sandhagen, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts (MMA), has an intriguing background that shaped his journey to the top.

1. Born on April 20, 1992, in Aurora, Colorado, Sandhagen grew up with a passion for sports.
2. He attended Smoky Hill High School, where he excelled in basketball.
3. Sandhagen later attended the University of Colorado Boulder, majoring in psychology.
4. His interest in martial arts began with kickboxing, which he started during his college years.

Transition to MMA

Sandhagen's journey from kickboxing to MMA is a testament to his dedication and versatility.

5. He made his professional MMA debut on May 30, 2015.
6. Sandhagen initially fought in the Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) before joining the UFC.
7. His early MMA career saw him achieve a record of 7-1 before entering the UFC.
8. Known for his striking skills, Sandhagen quickly made a name for himself in the bantamweight division.

UFC Career Highlights

Sandhagen's UFC career is marked by several notable achievements and memorable fights.

9. He made his UFC debut on January 27, 2018, against Austin Arnett, winning by TKO.
10. Sandhagen earned his first Performance of the Night bonus against Iuri Alcântara on August 25, 2018.
11. He faced John Lineker on April 27, 2019, winning by split decision in a thrilling bout.
12. Sandhagen's fight against Marlon Moraes on October 10, 2020, ended with a spectacular spinning wheel kick knockout.

Fighting Style and Techniques

Sandhagen's unique fighting style sets him apart from many of his peers in the MMA world.

13. He is known for his unorthodox striking and fluid movement.
14. Sandhagen often switches stances, making it difficult for opponents to predict his attacks.
15. His background in kickboxing contributes to his powerful and precise striking.
16. Sandhagen also possesses a solid ground game, with several submission victories to his name.

Notable Fights and Rivalries

Throughout his career, Sandhagen has faced some of the toughest competitors in the bantamweight division.

17. His fight against Aljamain Sterling on June 6, 2020, ended in a first-round submission loss, but it showcased his resilience.
18. Sandhagen's bout with Frankie Edgar on February 6, 2021, resulted in a stunning flying knee knockout just 28 seconds into the fight.
19. He faced T.J. Dillashaw on July 24, 2021, in a closely contested fight that ended in a split decision loss.
20. Sandhagen's fight against Petr Yan on October 30, 2021, for the interim UFC Bantamweight Championship was a five-round war, with Yan winning by unanimous decision.

Training and Preparation

Sandhagen's rigorous training regimen and preparation are key to his success in the octagon.

21. He trains at Elevation Fight Team in Denver, Colorado.
22. Sandhagen's training partners include notable fighters like Justin Gaethje and Neil Magny.
23. His training routine includes a mix of striking, grappling, and conditioning exercises.
24. Sandhagen emphasizes mental preparation, often incorporating meditation and visualization techniques.

Personal Life and Interests

Outside the octagon, Sandhagen leads a balanced life with various interests and hobbies.

25. He is an avid reader, often delving into books on psychology and philosophy.
26. Sandhagen enjoys hiking and exploring the outdoors in his home state of Colorado.
27. He has a pet dog named Luna, who often features in his social media posts.
28. Sandhagen is passionate about mental health awareness and advocates for mental well-being.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Sandhagen has clear goals and aspirations for his MMA career.

29. He aims to become the UFC Bantamweight Champion.
30. Sandhagen hopes to inspire the next generation of fighters with his journey and achievements.
31. He plans to continue evolving his fighting style and techniques.
32. Sandhagen envisions a future where he can contribute to the growth of MMA through coaching and mentorship.

Final Thoughts on Cory Sandhagen

Cory Sandhagen's journey in the UFC has been nothing short of impressive. From his early days in mixed martial arts to becoming a top contender in the bantamweight division, his dedication and skill are evident. Known for his striking prowess and unorthodox techniques, Sandhagen has delivered some of the most memorable performances in recent MMA history. His ability to adapt and evolve makes him a formidable opponent for anyone in the division.

Beyond the octagon, Sandhagen's commitment to continuous improvement and his humble demeanor have earned him respect from fans and peers alike. Whether you're a long-time follower or new to the sport, keeping an eye on Cory Sandhagen's career promises excitement and inspiration. His story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of mixed martial arts.