Cory Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo to Headline UFC’s Return to Iowa After 25 Years

The UFC is making a long-awaited return to Iowa, and it’s bringing a high-stakes bantamweight showdown to mark the occasion. Former interim title challenger Cory Sandhagen is set to battle former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo in the main event of UFC Des Moines on May 3.

Multiple sources confirmed the matchup on Thursday, with the initial report coming from Leonardo Guimarães. The event will be the UFC’s first in Iowa since UFC 26 in 2000 when Kevin Randleman defended his heavyweight title against Pedro Rizzo in Cedar Rapids.

For Sandhagen, this fight represents a chance to rebound from his most recent loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in August, which snapped his three-fight win streak. Before that setback, the dynamic striker had built momentum with victories over elite competition, including Rob Font, Marlon "Chito" Vera, and Song Yadong.

Meanwhile, Figueiredo is also looking to get back on track after falling to former bantamweight champion Petr Yan in November. Before that loss, the Brazilian had been on a strong run in his new division, racking up wins against Vera and former champion Cody Garbrandt.

With both men eager to reestablish themselves as top contenders, this main event promises fireworks. Sandhagen’s technical striking and movement will be tested against Figueiredo’s power and submission prowess, making for a compelling stylistic clash.

Beyond the fight itself, UFC Des Moines holds historical significance as the promotion returns to one of its early proving grounds. Iowa has long been a hotbed for MMA talent, producing legends like Pat Miletich, Matt Hughes, and Jeremy Stephens.

As May 3 approaches, fans can expect an intense showdown between two of the division’s most dangerous fighters. Sandhagen aims to reassert his dominance, while Figueiredo seeks to prove he belongs among the bantamweight elite.