Bio

Cory James Sandhagen (born April 20, 1992) is an American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Bantamweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). A professional competitor since 2015, he has also competed for Legacy Fighting Alliance. As of December 6, 2021, he is ranked #4 in the UFC bantamweight rankings. Background Born and raised in Aurora, Colorado, Sandhagen attended Smoky Hill High School where he was on the basketball team – a sport he had been playing from his youth. Eventually he grew interest in combat sports, first picking up kickboxing in which he won multiple WKA titles. After winning a WKA world title, Sandhagen began transitioning to mixed martial arts. Sandhagen attended University of Colorado Boulder, from where he graduated with a degree in psychology. Mixed martial arts career Early career Sandhagen made his Legacy Fighting Alliance debut on February 24, 2017 at LFA 5 against Jamall Emmers, losing the bout via unanimous decision. His next fight was on October 17, 2017 against Luiz Antonio Lobo Gavinho at LFA 24, which he won via first round TKO. Sandhagen's final appearance for Legacy Fighting Alliance came on January 19, 2018 at LFA 31, defeating Jose Aguayo via first round TKO.