Cory Sandhagen doesn`t consider his upcoming opponent, Merab Dvalishvili, to be the top fighter in the UFC today. At UFC 320, Sandhagen will compete for his first undisputed title, a significant moment four years after an unsuccessful bid for the interim bantamweight championship.
After impressive victories against opponents like Song Yadong, Marlon Vera, Rob Font, and Deiveson Figueiredo, Sandhagen has earned his shot at the title and aims to defeat Merab Dvalishvili to usher in a new era in the bantamweight division.
Merab `The Machine` Dvalishvili, known for his formidable 13-fight winning streak, is often seen as unbeatable. However, despite this impressive run, Sandhagen doesn`t believe he`ll be facing the UFC`s absolute best when they meet on October 4.
Cory Sandhagen Chooses Ilia Topuria Over Merab Dvalishvili as Current Best UFC Fighter
During fight week, prior to intense staredowns with Dvalishvili at the press conference and weigh-ins, Sandhagen participated in a casual `The Best` game with TNT Sports. In this segment, `The Sandman` was asked to name his picks for various categories, including the `best fighter in the UFC right now.`
Rather than using the opportunity to praise Dvalishvili – a choice that would have been justifiable – Sandhagen instead named a fighter well-known to his UFC 320 opponent. His surprising choice was Ilia Topuria, the current UFC Featherweight Champion, known for his dominant performances.
Cory Sandhagen Claims Many More `Routes to Victory` Than Merab Dvalishvili
Even with Dvalishvili`s impressive 13-fight winning streak, which has solidified his place among bantamweight contenders, Sandhagen believes the Georgian possesses limited avenues to victory at UFC 320. The confident challenger is convinced he can neutralize Dvalishvili`s strong points, anticipating he will dominate `The Machine` in striking exchanges, his own area of expertise.
“Unless his striking has significantly improved, it`s going to be a very tough night for him.”
“I`ve never experienced the intense fatigue that some of his previous opponents have shown. Nor have I been kept on my back for more than ten seconds in any fight unless it was by my own design.”
“When you remove those two elements, which I`ve consistently proven my mastery over, Merab will find he has very few paths to victory, while I have many.”
“It`s going to be my night. I`m going to be champion.”
Neville Whittle 
Jack Thornley