Cory Sandhagen's Top Fights: Relive His Best UFC Moments

Hey guys, get ready to dive deep into the electrifying career of one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC's bantamweight division: Cory Sandhagen. Known as "The Sandman," Cory isn't just a fighter; he's an artist in the Octagon, blending unorthodox striking with incredible athleticism and a relentless pace. His fights are never dull, always delivering edge-of-your-seat action that leaves fans buzzing. We’re talking about a guy who consistently puts on a show, earning him a reputation for being one of the most dynamic and must-watch athletes in mixed martial arts. From shocking knockouts to technical masterclasses and gritty five-round wars, Cory Sandhagen's best moments are etched into the annals of UFC history. In this article, we're going to break down some of his most unforgettable performances, highlighting the skills, heart, and sheer will that make him such a phenomenal competitor. So grab your popcorn, because we’re about to relive some truly spectacular UFC highlights from "The Sandman" himself!

The Rise of "The Sandman": A Glimpse into Cory Sandhagen's Early Career

Before he was a perennial contender lighting up the bantamweight division, Cory Sandhagen was honing his craft and making waves on the regional scene. Hailing from Aurora, Colorado, Sandhagen started his professional MMA journey in 2015, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His early fights were a clear indication of the unconventional and diverse striking arsenal he would later bring to the biggest stage. He wasn't just winning; he was finishing opponents with a blend of kicks, punches, and knees that many had never seen before. Guys, seriously, if you look back at his early tape, you’ll see the raw talent and potential that was just waiting to explode. He showcased incredible footwork, the ability to switch stances seamlessly, and a natural athleticism that set him apart. His record before joining the UFC was a stellar 7-1, a testament to his dedication and skill. This impressive run caught the eye of the UFC, and in 2018, "The Sandman" officially made his debut. His arrival in the UFC was met with a sense of anticipation, as fans and analysts alike knew they were getting a special talent. He didn't disappoint, quickly securing a TKO victory over Austin Arnett in his promotional debut, signaling that he was here to stay and ready to challenge the best in the world. This early success wasn't just about winning fights; it was about demonstrating a unique style that would become synonymous with Cory Sandhagen's best moments—a style that prioritizes innovation, aggression, and calculated chaos. It was clear from the get-go that this man was destined for greatness, and his journey up the ranks would be nothing short of thrilling.

Unforgettable Knockouts: Sandhagen's Most Explosive Finishes

When we talk about Cory Sandhagen's best moments, it’s impossible not to immediately think of his highlight-reel knockouts. This guy doesn't just win; he leaves a lasting impression with spectacular finishes that are replayed countless times. "The Sandman" has a knack for finding the perfect moment to unleash a devastating strike, often from an unexpected angle, that sends his opponents crashing to the canvas. These aren't just one-off lucky shots either; they're the result of incredible timing, precision, and an aggressive, forward-moving style that keeps his adversaries constantly on their back foot. His ability to mix up his attacks, whether it's a spinning kick, a flying knee, or a perfectly placed punch, makes him one of the most dangerous strikers in the entire sport. You never know what unorthodox attack he's going to throw next, and that unpredictability is what makes watching him so utterly captivating. These finishes are not just wins; they are statements, solidifying his reputation as a true knockout artist in the bantamweight division.

The Devastating Flying Knee vs. Frankie Edgar

Okay, guys, let’s talk about arguably the most iconic Cory Sandhagen knockout to date: the flying knee against the legendary Frankie Edgar. This fight, which took place in February 2021, was a massive co-main event, and everyone was buzzing about it. Edgar, a former lightweight champion and perennial contender, was a tough, experienced veteran known for his granite chin and incredible resilience. Many expected a grueling battle, but Sandhagen had other plans. Just 28 seconds into the very first round, "The Sandman" launched himself across the Octagon with a perfectly timed and unbelievably powerful flying knee. It landed flush on Edgar's chin, sending the veteran crashing to the canvas completely unconscious. The referee immediately stepped in, waving off the fight. It was a stunning, brutal, and instant knockout of the year contender that sent shockwaves through the MMA world. This wasn’t just a win; it was a definitive statement from Sandhagen that he was not only an elite fighter but a bonafide superstar capable of finishing anyone, anywhere, at any time. The speed, athleticism, and sheer audacity to throw such a high-risk, high-reward strike against a fighter of Edgar's caliber was mind-blowing. It truly showcased the unpredictable and exciting nature of Sandhagen's striking. This moment firmly cemented its place among Cory Sandhagen's best moments and is a finish that will be replayed for years to come, a testament to his incredible athletic prowess and killer instinct.

The Spinning Wheel Kick vs. Marlon Moraes

Another absolutely insane finish that belongs squarely in the discussion of Cory Sandhagen's best moments is his spinning wheel kick knockout of former title challenger Marlon Moraes. This bantamweight clash, which headlined a Fight Night event in October 2020, was highly anticipated. Moraes was a dangerous striker with his own history of spectacular finishes, so fans expected an explosive affair. What they got was a masterclass from Sandhagen. Throughout the first round, Cory utilized his trademark movement and volume, landing shots and keeping Moraes guessing. Then, in the second round, "The Sandman" unleashed a move that no one saw coming. He feinted a jab, causing Moraes to react, and then spun into a blistering wheel kick that connected perfectly with Moraes's head. Moraes dropped to the canvas, stunned, and Sandhagen followed up with a few ground strikes before the referee mercifully stepped in. It was another jaw-dropping, highlight-reel knockout that perfectly encapsulated Sandhagen's creativity and willingness to take risks. The precision and power behind that spinning kick were just incredible, showcasing his diverse striking toolkit. This win was huge for his career, proving he could not only go toe-to-toe with the division's elite but also finish them in spectacular fashion. It reinforced the idea that when you're facing Cory Sandhagen, you can never blink, because you might miss something truly extraordinary. This specific finish is a fan favorite and a fantastic example of why he's considered one of the most exciting strikers in the UFC.

Technical Masterclasses: Sandhagen's Strategic Brilliance

While Cory Sandhagen is often celebrated for his explosive knockouts, it would be a disservice to overlook his incredible technical prowess and strategic brilliance inside the Octagon. He’s not just a brawler; he's a highly intelligent fighter who dissects his opponents, exploits their weaknesses, and executes game plans with precision. His footwork is among the best in the division, allowing him to control distance, angle off, and create openings where none seem to exist. He seamlessly switches stances, making it incredibly difficult for opponents to read his rhythm or anticipate his attacks. This constant movement and varied offensive approach are hallmarks of his style, making him a puzzle that many fighters struggle to solve. "The Sandman" understands the art of striking at a very deep level, using feints, fakes, and combination punching to set up his more powerful shots. He can fight effectively from both orthodox and southpaw stances, throwing kicks and punches with equal venom from either side. These technical aspects are often what allow him to land those highlight-reel finishes, as they are usually the culmination of brilliant setups and tactical decisions. When he’s not going for the kill, he's methodically breaking down his opponents, frustrating them with his evasiveness and overwhelming them with volume. These performances might not always end in a definitive knockout, but they are equally impressive demonstrations of his elite skill set and firmly belong among Cory Sandhagen's best moments.

Dominating the Division: Performance Against John Lineker

One of the fights that truly showcased Cory Sandhagen's technical brilliance was his dominant performance against John Lineker at UFC Fight Night 150 in April 2019. Lineker, known as "Hands of Stone," is famous for his incredible punching power and aggressive, brawling style. Many thought this would be a stand-and-bang war, but Sandhagen approached it with a completely different strategy. He utilized his incredible length and reach, keeping Lineker at the end of his strikes, constantly moving and refusing to stand still in the pocket. "The Sandman" masterfully employed his diverse kicking game, peppering Lineker's legs and body, and frequently switching stances to confound his hard-hitting opponent. He wasn't just throwing; he was setting things up, landing crisp jabs and straight punches before dancing out of danger. Guys, this was a clinic on how to nullify a dangerous puncher. Sandhagen landed a remarkable volume of strikes over three rounds, out-landing Lineker significantly while absorbing minimal damage. He demonstrated exceptional footwork, head movement, and an uncanny ability to dictate the pace and range of the fight. This victory was a clear statement that Sandhagen wasn't just a knockout artist; he was a strategic genius capable of systematically dismantling an opponent who thrives on chaos. It was a mature, calculated performance that solidified his place as a top contender and highlighted the multifaceted nature of Cory Sandhagen's best moments—proving that sometimes, the most impressive wins are those that demonstrate superior technique and fight IQ rather than just raw power.

Outsmarting Raphael Assunção: A Striking Clinic

Another prime example of Cory Sandhagen's tactical mastery was his striking clinic against veteran Raphael Assunção at UFC 241 in August 2019. Assunção was a highly respected bantamweight, known for his well-rounded skills and dangerous submission game, but Sandhagen met him primarily in a striking battle. In this fight, "The Sandman" showed an advanced understanding of range and timing, consistently beating Assunção to the punch. He moved constantly, feinting and creating angles, making it nearly impossible for Assunção to get comfortable or mount a consistent offense. Cory showcased his blistering hand speed and combination striking, mixing punches to the head and body with powerful kicks. He demonstrated excellent defensive awareness, slipping punches and using his footwork to avoid Assunção’s counters. What really stood out was his ability to maintain a high pace for three full rounds without sacrificing precision. He was consistently sharp, fluid, and always a step ahead. This wasn’t a flashy knockout, but it was a comprehensive and dominant display of striking technique against a very tough, durable opponent. The fight went the distance, with Sandhagen earning a unanimous decision, and it was clear that he had completely outclassed Assunção on the feet. This performance reinforced the idea that Cory Sandhagen's best moments aren't just about finishing fights, but also about showcasing an unparalleled level of striking skill and control that few in the division can match. It was a testament to his dedication to the craft and his continuous evolution as a martial artist.

Heart and Grit: Battles Where Sandhagen Showed His True Spirit

Beyond the spectacular knockouts and technical wizardry, what truly defines Cory Sandhagen's best moments are the times he’s displayed incredible heart and grit. While his flashy finishes are unforgettable, it's in the deep waters of a tough fight where a fighter's true character shines, and "The Sandman" has shown time and again that he possesses an indomitable spirit. He's faced some of the most dangerous and skilled opponents in the bantamweight division, and even in the face of adversity, he never backs down. These are the fights where he’s pushed his limits, absorbed punishment, and continued to fight back with an unwavering resolve. It's easy to look good when everything is going your way, but it takes a special kind of warrior to dig deep when the going gets tough. Cory Sandhagen has been in those grueling battles, and he’s emerged with his reputation enhanced, proving that he's not just a talent, but a fighter with incredible mental fortitude. These moments of resilience, even if they don't always result in a victory, are powerful demonstrations of his unwavering dedication to his craft and his refusal to quit. They showcase the kind of champion’s mindset that makes him such a compelling figure in the UFC.

The War Against Petr Yan: A Five-Round Thriller

Guys, if you want to talk about heart and a true display of fighting spirit, you have to bring up Cory Sandhagen's epic five-round war against Petr Yan for the interim bantamweight title at UFC 267 in October 2021. This fight was an absolute masterpiece, a technical striking battle that quickly escalated into a slugfest, and it’s undoubtedly one of Cory Sandhagen's best moments, even though he ultimately lost a close decision. Both fighters are elite strikers, and for 25 minutes, they put on a pure striking clinic, exchanging blistering combinations, powerful kicks, and sharp counter-punches. Sandhagen showcased incredible resilience, weathering some heavy shots from Yan, especially a few brutal body kicks that would have stopped lesser fighters. He continued to push the pace, landing his own significant strikes and demonstrating his signature movement and creativity. There were moments in every round where both men had each other hurt, yet they kept coming forward, refusing to yield. The fight was razor-thin, a testament to the high-level competition and the incredible heart shown by both athletes. While the decision didn't go his way, Sandhagen's performance against Yan solidified his status as an absolute warrior and proved he can hang with the very best of the best for the full 25 minutes. He left everything he had in the Octagon, and fans universally praised the fight as one of the most exciting of the year. This fight was a raw, unfiltered look at Sandhagen's fighting spirit, an incredible display of skill and determination that will long be remembered.

Pushing Aljamain Sterling to the Limit

Even in defeat, Cory Sandhagen has shown his warrior spirit, and his fight against Aljamain Sterling at UFC 250 in June 2020, while brief, was a crucial learning experience and showcased his willingness to take on any challenge. This was a pivotal fight in the bantamweight division, with both fighters on impressive win streaks, and it was seen as a potential title eliminator. Unfortunately for Sandhagen, the fight ended quickly as Sterling secured a submission victory via a rear-naked choke in just 88 seconds. While the result was tough, the willingness of Sandhagen to step into the cage with a grappler as elite as Sterling, knowing the risks, speaks volumes about his courage and championship mentality. Every fighter faces setbacks, and what truly matters is how they respond. Sandhagen took this loss, learned from it, and came back even stronger, refining his grappling defense and overall game. It was a tough night at the office, but it underscores the fact that even in moments of adversity, a fighter's true spirit is revealed. He took a difficult loss, processed it, and used it as fuel to improve, showing the resilience that makes him a perennial top contender. This moment, though a loss, contributed to his growth and is part of the broader narrative of Cory Sandhagen's best moments as he constantly evolves and strives for greatness.

What's Next for "The Sandman"?

So, what’s next for Cory Sandhagen? After all these incredible performances and memorable battles, "The Sandman" remains a top-tier contender in the stacked UFC bantamweight division. He's consistently ranked among the top fighters, always just one or two wins away from another shot at the gold. His unique style, explosive power, and unwavering heart make him a threat to anyone in the division. Fans are constantly speculating about his next opponent, dreaming of dream matchups against other elite strikers or challenging grapplers. Whether it's a rematch with a former foe, a clash with a rising star, or another shot at a championship, one thing is for sure: when Cory Sandhagen steps into the Octagon, you can expect fireworks. He embodies the spirit of a true martial artist, always seeking to improve and always ready to put on a show. His journey is far from over, and we can't wait to see what other incredible Cory Sandhagen's best moments he'll create in the future.

Conclusion

There you have it, guys! We've taken a deep dive into Cory Sandhagen's best moments, reliving some of the most thrilling and technically brilliant performances from "The Sandman." From his unforgettable flying knee against Frankie Edgar and the spinning wheel kick that stunned Marlon Moraes to his dominant technical displays against John Lineker and Raphael Assunção, and the sheer grit shown in his war with Petr Yan, Sandhagen has consistently delivered. He's not just a fighter; he's an innovator, an entertainer, and a warrior who leaves it all in the cage every single time. His blend of unorthodox striking, incredible athleticism, and unwavering heart makes him one of the most compelling figures in the UFC today. We're talking about a guy who makes you jump out of your seat with every fight, a true highlight-reel machine. As he continues his journey in the highly competitive bantamweight division, one thing is certain: any time Cory Sandhagen is scheduled to fight, it’s a must-watch event. We can’t wait to see what new, incredible moments "The Sandman" will create next for us to enjoy!