Merab Dvalishvili vs Cory Sandhagen Full Fight – UFC 320

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Published on July 2, 2026 by administrator

The UFC bantamweight championship co-main event at UFC 320: Ankalaev vs. Pereira 2 took place on October 4, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Champion Merab Dvalishvili defended his title against top contender Cory Sandhagen in a clash between the division’s relentless wrestler and one of its most creative strikers. Dvalishvili delivered another masterclass in pace, pressure, and wrestling, retaining his title by unanimous decision.

Round 1

Sandhagen started sharply, using his reach advantage to establish a long jab while switching stances and circling away from Dvalishvili’s constant forward pressure. The champion wasted little time shooting for his first takedown, but Sandhagen showcased excellent balance and defensive wrestling, stuffing the initial attempt before escaping another clinch along the fence.

On the feet, Sandhagen landed several clean straight punches and mixed in low kicks that briefly disrupted Dvalishvili’s rhythm. The Georgian answered with bursts of combinations before repeatedly changing levels, forcing Sandhagen to defend takedowns even when they did not result in prolonged control. The opening round remained competitive, with Sandhagen enjoying success at striking range while Dvalishvili’s pressure and grappling threats kept the fight close.

Round 2

Dvalishvili dramatically increased the pace in the second round. Constantly chaining wrestling attempts together, he finally began dragging Sandhagen to the canvas. Even when Sandhagen scrambled back to his feet, Dvalishvili immediately re-attacked with another takedown, refusing to give his opponent time to reset.

Midway through the round came the fight’s biggest moment. Dvalishvili surprised everyone by landing a clean right hand that dropped Sandhagen to the canvas. Although Sandhagen recovered quickly, the champion swarmed with ground-and-pound before maintaining top control for much of the remaining round. By the horn, Dvalishvili had completely shifted the momentum through relentless wrestling and unexpected striking success.

Round 3

Sandhagen attempted to re-establish distance with front kicks and sharp combinations, but Dvalishvili’s cardio proved overwhelming. Every striking exchange quickly transitioned into another takedown attempt, forcing Sandhagen to expend enormous energy defending.

Whenever Sandhagen created separation, Dvalishvili immediately pressured back into clinches, landing short punches and knees before completing additional takedowns. Although Sandhagen continued to scramble effectively and avoided dangerous submission positions, he struggled to generate sustained offense as the champion controlled both tempo and positioning.

Round 4

By the championship rounds, Dvalishvili’s relentless pace had clearly taken its toll. He continued chaining together double-leg attempts, body locks, and trips, repeatedly forcing Sandhagen back to the mat. The challenger remained composed and technically sound, escaping numerous bad positions, but each escape was met by another wave of pressure.

On the feet, Dvalishvili mixed crisp jabs and overhand rights into his wrestling entries, preventing Sandhagen from finding a consistent striking rhythm. The champion’s activity and cage control left little doubt he had extended his lead on the scorecards.

Round 5

Knowing he likely needed a finish, Sandhagen fought with greater urgency. He landed several clean combinations and defended multiple early takedown attempts, drawing cheers from the crowd. Dvalishvili, however, refused to abandon his game plan.

The champion secured more late takedowns, maintaining heavy top pressure and repeatedly forcing Sandhagen to work back to his feet. Despite Sandhagen’s outstanding defensive grappling and resilience, Dvalishvili’s relentless wrestling volume, superior control, and nonstop pressure carried him through the final five minutes.

After twenty-five exhausting minutes, both men embraced as the crowd applauded a high-level championship contest.

Official Result: Merab Dvalishvili defeated Cory Sandhagen via unanimous decision (49-45, 49-45, 49-46) to retain the UFC Bantamweight Championship. Dvalishvili landed eight takedowns, controlled much of the fight with his trademark pace and wrestling, and even scored a knockdown in one of the most complete performances of his championship reign.

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