Cory Sandhagen's Confidence in Becoming UFC Champion

In a recent episode of the JAXXON PODCAST, UFC bantamweight contender Cory Sandhagen shared his strong belief in his potential to become the next UFC champion. He discussed his journey in the bantamweight division, emphasizing his technical skills and strategic approach to fighting. Sandhagen expressed that he feels he has evolved significantly as a fighter and is ready to take on the top contenders to claim the title. His confidence is palpable as he outlines his readiness to face any challenge in the octagon.

Breaking Down a Potential Sean O'Malley Matchup

At around the 15:30 mark, Sandhagen delved into a detailed analysis of a potential fight with Sean O'Malley, a former champion in the division. He highlighted O'Malley's striking prowess but asserted his belief in being the superior overall MMA fighter. Sandhagen pointed out specific areas where he feels he has an edge, including grappling and fight IQ. He stressed that this matchup is one that fans are eager to see, and he is frustrated that it hasn’t been scheduled yet, calling it the most logical next fight for both fighters.

Strategies Against Top Bantamweight Contenders

Later in the conversation, near the 28:45 timestamp, Sandhagen discussed strategies for facing other top bantamweight contenders like Merab Dvalishvili. He acknowledged Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling style but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt and counter with his own skills. Sandhagen emphasized his willingness to wrestle if needed, showcasing his versatility as a fighter. His game plan involves a mix of striking and grappling to neutralize the strengths of opponents known for their ground game.

Reflections on Past Fights and Growth

Towards the 40:10 point of the podcast, Sandhagen reflected on past fights, including his bout against Umar Nurmagomedov. He analyzed what he learned from those experiences and how they have shaped him into a better fighter. Sandhagen noted specific adjustments he has made in training to address previous shortcomings. His focus on continuous improvement and learning from each fight underlines his dedication to reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

Mental Preparation and Fighter Mindset

At approximately the 52:20 mark, the discussion shifted to Sandhagen’s mental preparation and mindset as a fighter. He shared insights into how he maintains focus and handles the pressures of high-stakes fights. Sandhagen emphasized the importance of mental toughness and staying composed under pressure, which he believes will be key in securing a title shot. His approach to mental conditioning is as rigorous as his physical training, highlighting a holistic preparation for championship-level competition.