UFC Fight Night tips: Marlon Vera looks to realise his potential against Cory Sandhagen
- Liam Hampton
- 24 March 2023
A staple of the UFC's packed bantamweight division since 2014, Ecuador's Marlon "Chito" Vera looks to cement himself as the number one contender as he faces American Cory Sandhagen.
A slow starter not only in his fights but also in his UFC career, "Chito" began his journey with the company having lost two of his first three fights.
Since then he has been superb, racking up winning streaks of three, five and four fights. His latest winning streak has put him in direct contention for a title shot.
His opponent is former interim title contender Cory Sandhagen.
A giant bantamweight standing at 5'11", Sandhagen stood tall above his divisional rivals as he secured dominant wins over Frankie Edgar and Song Yadong.
Known as a devastating striker, it was a surprise to many when Sandhagen attempted to take Song Yadong down a total of 14 times during their fight.
But Sandhagen is an intelligent fighter and he exploited how Yadong would react to his takedown attempts, firing knees at the head of his Chinese opponent.
Between Vera and Sandhagen, 77% of their fights have ended in a finish whether that be a signature Vera headkick or a ferocious flying knee from Sandhagen, both men like to end the fight early.
Both men will look to impose their striking game plans, however Vera must start faster if he is to carry on his unbeaten streak.
Sandhagen has never been finished by strikes in his career and has cardio to last, so if Vera starts slow then Sandhagen will take advantage and win the fight.
Key Stats
Sandhagen has only lost in the UFC to former champions.
Vera has never been finished in his 30-fight career.
Suggested Bet
Fight to go the distance - Yes
