As UFC 320 approaches, the bantamweight division holds its breath. Cory Sandhagen, known for his dynamic striking, is poised to challenge the seemingly unshakeable champion, Merab Dvalishvili. What’s truly raising eyebrows, however, isn`t just the title shot itself, but the audacious strategy hinted at by Sandhagen`s coach, Trevor Wittman: a willingness, perhaps even an eagerness, to grapple with the man affectionately known as `The Machine.`
Challenging the Untouchable: Merab Dvalishvili`s Reign
Merab Dvalishvili has carved out a fearsome reputation in the bantamweight division. With a remarkable 13-fight winning streak extending back to 2018, his dominance is built upon relentless pressure, an almost superhuman gas tank, and a suffocating wrestling game. Opponents typically enter the octagon against Dvalishvili with one primary objective: avoid the takedown at all costs. To willingly engage him on the mat is often seen as a strategic blunder, akin to bringing a spoon to a knife fight when the opponent specializes in cutlery.
His “Machine” moniker is well-earned. Merab doesn`t just take opponents down; he grinds them into submission with an unyielding pace and a barrage of control time, making escape a Herculean task. To contemplate a pro-grappling approach against such a specialist is, frankly, astounding.
Sandhagen`s Striking Prowess Meets an Unexpected Twist
Cory “The Sandman” Sandhagen is celebrated for his creative, unpredictable striking. He`s a fighter who excels in movement, angles, and precision. While certainly a well-rounded athlete, grappling has rarely been the focal point of his offensive game against top-tier competition. This context makes coach Trevor Wittman’s recent comments all the more intriguing.
Wittman, renowned as one of MMA’s premier strategists, suggested that Sandhagen`s team isn`t just preparing to defend takedowns but is actively exploring offensive grappling opportunities. “I don’t think a lot of guys do it against Merab,” Wittman remarked during the UFC 320 Countdown episode. “They go out there and they’re just, ‘Hey, don’t get taken down.’ And then when they get taken down, they’re on plan B. I don’t want [Sandhagen] to think like that. Can we sweep him? Can we take him down?”
This isn`t merely a hint; it`s a gauntlet thrown. It speaks to an almost defiant confidence, a belief that Sandhagen possesses an overlooked dimension capable of turning Dvalishvili’s greatest strength into a potential Achilles` heel. It`s a high-stakes gamble, daring to beat the chess master at his own game.
Such a strategy, if executed successfully, would not only secure Sandhagen the undisputed bantamweight title but would also send shockwaves through the division, redefining what`s considered possible against a dominant force like Dvalishvili. If it falters, however, it could cement Dvalishvili`s reputation as truly ungrappleable.
Beyond UFC 320: Sandhagen`s Vision for the Future
Despite the monumental challenge ahead, Sandhagen`s vision extends beyond the immediate Octagon battle. Winning the undisputed 135-pound belt would naturally put him in a position to dictate his future, a freedom he clearly savors.
“I really like the feeling of, I will be in charge of who I fight next and where it’s gonna be,” Sandhagen told New York Post Sports. He even named potential future opponents, indicating a desire for rematches on his terms.
Specifically, Sandhagen mentioned Umar Nurmagomedov and Petr Yan, both formidable bantamweight contenders. His preference? To face them “stateside,” in the U.S., rather than internationally, allowing them to manage the travel burden he’s experienced in past bouts. This forward-looking perspective, even on the precipice of his biggest career fight, underscores Sandhagen’s ambition and strategic thinking.
The Stage is Set
UFC 320 promises a clash of titans, but the pre-fight narrative has taken an unexpected turn. Will Cory Sandhagen truly attempt to out-grapple Merab Dvalishvili? It`s a question that ignites the imagination and adds a layer of delicious intrigue to an already high-stakes title fight. Regardless of the outcome, Trevor Wittman`s revelation ensures that all eyes will be fixed not just on the strikes exchanged, but on every scramble, every clinch, and every potential takedown attempt.
Gareth Pendleton