UFC 323 Set for Las Vegas Showdown as Reigning Champions Merab Dvalishvili and Alexandre Pantoja Enter as Significant Betting Favorites

As the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) prepares for what is touted as the final pay-per-view event of 2025, UFC 323, anticipation builds around two pivotal title defenses in Las Vegas. The event is headlined by a highly anticipated bantamweight championship rematch between the dominant Merab Dvalishvili and former undisputed champion Petr Yan. In the co-main event, flyweight king Alexandre Pantoja will look to continue his reign against the rapidly ascending challenger Joshua Van. Current betting lines position both Dvalishvili and Pantoja as considerable favorites, suggesting that the organization expects its current champions to maintain their hold on their respective divisions heading into the new year.

The main event at UFC 323 features a bantamweight title clash that sees Merab "The Machine" Dvalishvili (21-4 MMA, 11-2 UFC) defend his belt against the formidable Petr "No Mercy" Yan (17-5 MMA, 9-4 UFC). This encounter marks a significant shift in perception and expectation since their initial meeting in 2023. At that time, Dvalishvili entered the octagon as a notable +210 underdog, a challenging position from which he delivered a thoroughly dominant performance, securing a unanimous decision victory over Yan. That win propelled Dvalishvili to the forefront of the bantamweight division, a trajectory he has maintained with relentless momentum.

Since his victory over Yan, Dvalishvili has embarked on an unprecedented run, culminating in him capturing the bantamweight championship and successfully defending it three times within the current calendar year. Should he emerge victorious in this rematch at UFC 323, Dvalishvili will etch his name into the promotion’s history books as the first UFC fighter ever to achieve four successful title defenses in a single year. This remarkable achievement would underscore his status as one of the most active and dominant champions in recent memory, a testament to his exceptional conditioning, unwavering pressure, and evolving skill set.

FanDuel Sportsbook has Dvalishvili listed as a substantial -500 betting favorite for the rematch. This figure implies an 83 percent chance of victory for the Georgian champion, reflecting widespread confidence in his ability to replicate or even exceed his previous performance against Yan. The betting line for Petr Yan stands at +340, indicating a significant underdog status for the former champion. This dramatic shift from their first encounter highlights Dvalishvili’s meteoric rise and the market’s assessment of his current form.

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Dvalishvili’s fighting style is characterized by an almost ceaseless output, high-volume striking, and world-class wrestling that allows him to control opponents and dictate the pace of fights. His cardio is legendary within the sport, often overwhelming opponents in later rounds. His path to the title involved a series of impressive victories over top contenders, showcasing a well-rounded game that has progressively improved, particularly his offensive striking to complement his foundational grappling.

Petr Yan, on the other hand, is known for his technical striking, composed demeanor, and ability to make adjustments mid-fight. A former undisputed champion, Yan’s career has seen him face some of the bantamweight division’s toughest challenges. While his record reflects a recent string of mixed results, he remains a highly dangerous opponent with precision striking and strong takedown defense. For Yan, this rematch represents a critical opportunity to reclaim his former glory and re-establish himself at the pinnacle of the division. His strategy will likely revolve around neutralizing Dvalishvili’s wrestling and finding openings for his powerful counter-striking. The tactical adjustments made by both fighters since their last bout will be crucial to the outcome.

In the co-main event, reigning flyweight champion Alexandre "The Cannibal" Pantoja (31-6 MMA, 13-4 UFC) puts his title on the line against the surging Joshua Van (11-1 MMA, 4-0 UFC). Pantoja enters this contest as a -265 favorite, with Van positioned as a +200 underdog, according to FanDuel. This translates to an implied win probability of 72 percent for the Brazilian champion, a testament to his established dominance in the 125-pound division.

Alexandre Pantoja has firmly cemented his legacy as one of the greatest flyweights in UFC history, with many experts and fans considering him the second-greatest flyweight of all time, behind only Demetrious Johnson. Pantoja claimed the flyweight title with a hard-fought victory and has since defended it successfully four times, showcasing a blend of aggressive striking and elite-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His title defenses have demonstrated his ability to overcome diverse challenges, from powerful strikers to intricate grapplers, solidifying his reputation as a well-rounded and relentless competitor. His recent performances have included impressive finishes and gritty decision wins, proving his championship mettle.

Pantoja’s fighting style is defined by his aggressive forward pressure, potent striking combinations, and exceptional submission skills. He is known for engaging in thrilling, high-paced exchanges, often seeking to finish fights on the ground. His journey to the title was marked by a series of high-profile wins against top contenders, showcasing his readiness for championship contention.

His challenger, Joshua Van, represents a new wave of talent in the flyweight division. Van has quickly made a name for himself in the UFC, boasting an undefeated 4-0 record within the promotion since his debut. His professional record of 11-1 speaks to his rapid ascent and potential. Van’s fighting style is characterized by dynamic striking, impressive athleticism, and a fearless approach in the octagon. He has displayed significant knockout power and an ability to adapt to his opponents, making him a dangerous contender who could potentially upset the established order. This title shot represents the biggest opportunity of Van’s career, a chance to prove himself against one of the division’s all-time greats.

UFC 323 is scheduled to take place this Saturday at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event features a compelling lineup of fights, but the spotlight remains firmly on these two championship bouts. The collective expectation, as reflected in the betting markets, is for Dvalishvili and Pantoja to continue their reigns. However, the nature of mixed martial arts ensures that upsets are always a possibility, adding an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to what promises to be a memorable night of fights. The outcomes of these bouts will undoubtedly shape the landscape of both the bantamweight and flyweight divisions well into 2026.