The anticipation is building as the main event of UFC on ESPN 50 approaches featuring a high-stakes bantamweight clash between Rob Font and Cory Sandhagen.
The anticipation is building as the main event of UFC on ESPN 50 approaches featuring a high-stakes bantamweight clash between Rob Font and Cory Sandhagen. Both fighters are eager to solidify their place in the division. This contract weight bout is expected to be a thrilling showdown at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
Rob Font stepped in on short notice for this matchup against Cory Sandhagen after Umar Nurmagomedov was forced to withdraw. Despite the change in opponent, Font is confident and ready for the challenge.
“I’m loving it, man. We got out here a little earlier. We got to kind of just hang out at a farm got to just do the whole outside, enjoy the land, and kind of take it all in” Font told MMA Junkie. “I haven’t explored the city yet, but I’ll probably do that (Thursday). But I’m here, I’m ready, and having fun.”
Font’s preparation for this main event bout has been intense. And he’s aware of the significance of facing a higher-ranked opponent like Sandhagen. Font’s coach, Tyson Chartier, informed him of the change in opponent and after careful consideration and discussion with his team the fight was made.
“This is going to be a tricky fight. He has great footwork and throws lots of kicks. He mixes in the wrestling world. When he gets on top, he’s dangerous,” Font said about Sandhagen. “So it’s more of like just getting in there and doing what I want to do get him on the back foot. Let him feel the power. Let him feel the length. I think he’s going to be surprised once we start grappling of how strong and solid I am when it comes to grappling.”
Font is known for his knockout power and impressive striking skills and he plans to showcase his abilities against Sandhagen. The bantamweight division is stacked with talent and a win over Sandhagen could potentially earn Font a shot at the title.
“It’s hard to get Cory out of there. He’s fought all the top guys, and it’s not easy to get him out of there. Getting in there, knocking him out, getting that bonus, getting my hand raised, and getting that title shot that’s obviously the end goal,” Font expressed.
Fighting in Nashville adds a layer of excitement for Font. He is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that come with being in the main event. While there may be some added pressure fighting at home. Font is focused on the positives and is determined to make the most of this significant opportunity.
“I hope (I get the Aljamain Sterling-Sean O’Malley winner),” Font said about his title aspirations. “If Sean doesn’t get him out of there in the first two rounds, I believe Aljamain’s winning the decision. I can see, especially with Merab (Dvalishvili) in the way, and obviously, he’s injured, so I can see how he can kind of throw a little wrench into the division. In a perfect world, (Sterling) moves up and just gets into the featherweight division. (Then) I’m next in line. We’ll see.”
For more UFC news and updates
Read: UFC 291: Preview, Prediction, Fight Card, Where to Watch, Venue, and Tickets
Read: UFC 291 results: Justin Gaethje claims BMF title with stunning knockout victory Over Dustin Poirier
Get the latest from Sportslumo.com by following us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube
Stephen Thompson declines the quick turnaround fight and wants Usman next.
Follow Us
