UFC San Antonio: How did Cory Sandhagen react to surprising split-decision verdict against Marlon Vera? Find out here

Cory Sandhagen took on Marlon 'Chito' Vera at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Sandhagen put on a memorable performance, shutting Vera out, at least according to everyone but one judge.

Fans, fighters and experts believed Sandhagen comfortably won the bout, but one judge inexplicably scored it 48-47 in favor of Vera. When Sandhagen was asked about the judge's score in his post-fight interview, he said it was "confusing."

Here's what Cory Sandhagen had to say on his split-decision victory over Marlon Vera:

By no means the fight and Sandhagen's comments serve to bring attention to the issue of judging, which has been a problem in the sport.

Vera, as well, appeared to be resigned to the fact that he lost. In his post-fight interview, he looked disappointed and simply apologized to and thanked his fans for their support.

Watch as Vera reacts to his loss against Sandhagen:

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Cory Sandhagen defeats Marlon 'Chito' Vera, calls out Merab Dvalishvili

After Sandhagen put on a clinic against 'Chito', he took the to the mic to call out fellow bantamweight, Merab Dvalishvili. After his fight, Sandhagen spoke to Bisping and delivered a memorable callout, saying:

"I would feel so slimy if I asked for a title shot before Merab. Merab is an absolute animal, and I respect him a ton. I want that number 1 fight. I got a line - it's a little embarrassing. Merab, you're hungry? I got something for you to eat...and it don't taste good!" [1:47]

Watch as Cory Sandhagen calls out Merab Dvalishvili:

Sandhagen's comments should come as no surprise, especially considering Merab's dominating win over bantamweight contender and former champion, Petr Yan.

Merab was unrelenting in his pressure against Yan, and Sandhagen sees that as a great challenge. Merab has previously stated that he will not fight champion Aljamain Sterling as they are very close friends and so, it appears that Cory Sandhagen might be his next opponent.

Sterling, on the other hand, will welcome back Henry Cejudo from his retirement and defend his bantamweight belt at UFC 288 on May 7th, 2023.

Watch as Cejudo and Sterling go back and forth and build up their fight, set for UFC 288.