Marlon Moraes claims that Cory Sandhagen, this Saturday's rival, is an improved version of Dominick Cruz

M. Moraes in victory for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction / Facebook UFC

Se Marlon moraes was looking for a big challenge to regain his status as a challenger for the bantamweight belt (up to 61,2kg), he found it. One of the protagonists of UFC Fight Island 5, the Brazilian will face Cory Sandhagen. Aware of the qualities of his next rival, the Friborg native surprised when talking about his opponent's technique.

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“I think Cory is an improved version of Dominick Cruz. I want to get into the octagon and show the caliber of fighter I have. Getting there against a high-level opponent like Cory. He's not an easy fight for anyone. In my opinion, he is one of the best in the division and one of the toughest guys to face,” said the Brazilian, in an interview with 'MMA Junkie'.

When comparing Sandhagen with Cruz, Marlon makes an analogy with one of the main names in the history of bantamweights in MMA. Dominick haunted the division between 2010 and 2016, beating big names in the UFC.

Currently, Sandhagen is number three in the category led by Petr yan. A convincing victory for Marlon, who is number one in the group, behind only the champion, could put him back in a fight for the title.

Moraes has not performed since December last year, when he defeated José Aldo in Manauara's debut in the under-61,2kg category. Cory, in turn, fought in June of this year and ended up losing to aljamain sterling, who is another strong candidate to face Yan for the strap.