Michael Bisping gives his UFC Abu Dhabi main event prediction

08/01/2024 06:59 AM

This weekend's UFC event in Abu Dhabi is headlined by a bantamweight fight between second-ranked Cory Sandhagen and undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov.  The match is essentially a No. 1 contender bout with the winner likely earning a title shot.  

Sandhagen (17-4) will enter the fight riding a three-fight winning streak.  Nurmagomedov (17-0) hasn't tasted defeat and has finished three of his five UFC opponents.  Ranked 10th in the division, Nurmagomedov has the opportunity to pick up the biggest win of his career.  

Former middleweight champion Michael Bisping expects the match to be a 'tough fight' and gave his prediction for the outcome on his YouTube channel.    

"This is going to be a No. 1 contender matchup.  Whoever wins this fight between Cory and Umar, you gotta think they get the winner of Sean O'Malley versus Merab Dvalishvili for the bantamweight title," Bisping said.  "Nurmagomedov, that's right.  You know the name.  You know the style.  He comes from Dagestan, a tremendous wrestler but he's got great kickboxing as well.  His kickboxing is phenomenal but I don't think he'll be using it against Cory Sandhagen.

"Cory is tall.  He's long.  He's quick.  He's versatile.  He's well-rounded.  He's a student of the game," Bisping continued.  "I believe this is going to be a really tough test for Umar Nurmagomedov."

Bisping believes Nurmagomedov will use his wrestling against Sandhagen and a key to the fight will be whether "Young Eagle" can take "The Sandman" down.  

"The big question with this fight is can Umar Nurmagomedov takedown Cory Sandhagen look for ground and pound, look for a submission, of course.  But the wrestling is going to be key to winning the fight," Bisping said.  "Cory is the longer guy.  He is very versatile and he's a devastating striker."

"Cory Sandhagen is a real threat, but I believe Umar Nurmagomedov, even though this is a step up in competition, I've got Umar Nurmagomedov by decision," continued Bisping.  "Although, I'm not overly confident on that pick."