Ankalaev-Pereira Rematch Headlines UFC 320 in Las Vegas Title Double-Header

Las Vegas, Nevada – UFC 320 is set to unfold this Saturday night in Las Vegas, featuring a compelling fight card anchored by two championship bouts. The main event will see a highly anticipated light heavyweight title rematch between current champion Magomed Ankalaev and former titleholder Alex Pereira. The co-main event features another championship contest, with Merab Dvalishvili defending his bantamweight strap against Cory Sandhagen.

Light Heavyweight Championship: Magomed Ankalaev (c) vs. Alex Pereira 2

The main event marks a swift return to action for both Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira, following their initial encounter at UFC 313 in March. In their first meeting, Ankalaev emerged victorious by unanimous decision, successfully reclaiming the title he had previously held. The Dagestani fighter’s strategy in that bout focused on accumulating strikes and effectively utilizing clinch work to neutralize Pereira’s renowned striking prowess, particularly his devastating power. The first contest showcased Ankalaev’s tactical discipline against Pereira’s explosive, but somewhat stifled, offense.

Heading into the rematch, an undercurrent of heightened animosity has been noted, with both athletes reportedly eager to deliver a decisive performance. Alex Pereira, known as "Poatan," is a former two-division champion, having previously held titles in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions. His career record stands at 10 wins and 3 losses, with all 10 victories coming by knockout. Ankalaev, boasting a record of 19 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no-contest, is primarily a striking specialist with a strong wrestling background, though his application of takedowns has varied.

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Expert predictions for the rematch are divided. Combat sports writers Brian Campbell, Michael Mormile, and Brandon Wise all favor Pereira to reclaim the title. Campbell suggested that Pereira, despite rumored physical ailments in the first fight (unconfirmed broken hand and norovirus), still managed to stuff all 12 of Ankalaev’s takedown attempts. He argues that Pereira, if fully healthy and less distracted after a successful 2024 campaign, possesses greater potential for improvement and a more dangerous, clutch fighting style compared to Ankalaev’s sometimes passive approach in high-stakes moments. Campbell anticipates Pereira making a significant statement after a competitive initial phase.

Conversely, combat sports writers Brent Brookhouse and Shakiel Mahjouri predict Ankalaev will retain his belt. Brookhouse highlighted Ankalaev’s effective use of the clinch in the first fight, even without high-volume takedowns. He notes Ankalaev’s average of 0.8 takedowns per 15 minutes with 22% accuracy, indicating that his grappling influence in the first fight was more about control in close quarters than repeated takedowns. Brookhouse believes Ankalaev’s ability to "clinch and bully Pereira around the cage" will once again be sufficient for a victory, even if Pereira makes adjustments that lead to a more aggressive, potentially vulnerable, approach. Mahjouri echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Ankalaev’s well-rounded skill set and his capacity to nullify Pereira’s offense through a combination of point striking and clinch control, predicting another decision win for the champion.

The betting odds for the main event will reflect this close contest, with Ankalaev likely entering as a slight favorite given his previous victory and well-rounded game, while Pereira’s knockout power always makes him a significant threat.

Bantamweight Championship: Merab Dvalishvili (c) vs. Cory Sandhagen

The co-main event features another high-stakes title fight in the bantamweight division, as Merab Dvalishvili puts his championship on the line against top contender Cory Sandhagen. Dvalishvili enters the bout riding an impressive 13-fight win streak, a run that has propelled him to the bantamweight title and a top-five position in the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings. Known for his relentless pressure and exceptional wrestling, Dvalishvili has earned a reputation as a "relentless takedown artist." Ahead of this defense, Dvalishvili has publicly stated his intention to seek a knockout against Sandhagen, a victory that could significantly bolster his claim as the "true bantamweight GOAT" and place him in an exclusive echelon of UFC champions.

Cory Sandhagen, with a professional record of 17 wins and 4 losses, is recognized for his unique and dynamic striking, characterized by an unpredictable array of leaping strikes and strong cardio. Sandhagen has long been considered a premier threat in the bantamweight division, consistently facing top competition.

Expert analysis heavily favors Dvalishvili in this matchup. Brian Campbell, Brent Brookhouse, and Shakiel Mahjouri all selected Dvalishvili to win. Campbell acknowledged Sandhagen as potentially the most challenging stylistic opponent for Dvalishvili during his dominant run, noting Sandhagen’s strong gas tank and unconventional striking. However, Campbell points to Dvalishvili’s relentless work rate and subtle improvements in his striking as key factors. He also highlighted Dvalishvili’s overwhelming momentum against Sandhagen, who, despite his talent, has struggled to secure victories in previous high-stakes title opportunities. Dvalishvili is currently installed as a significant 4-to-1 betting favorite.

Brookhouse described fighting Dvalishvili as a "worst nightmare" due to his ceaseless forward pressure, constant takedown attempts, and integrated striking. He believes Sandhagen, despite his skills, lacks the defensive wrestling or cardio to withstand Dvalishvili’s sustained assault. Mahjouri, while noting Dvalishvili’s claim to strike with Sandhagen and Sandhagen’s confidence in his wrestling, expressed skepticism about both claims. He firmly believes Dvalishvili’s endurance and wrestling form a "lethal combination" that will break Sandhagen’s rhythm and prevent him from establishing his dynamic striking game.

Brandon Wise, however, offered a dissenting view, picking Sandhagen for the upset. Wise pondered the scenario where Dvalishvili struggles to secure or maintain takedowns. He suggested that if Dvalishvili genuinely opts for a striking battle, Sandhagen’s slick boxing style could exploit defensive openings, citing Dvalishvili’s past vulnerability to strikes, such as being nearly knocked out by Marlon Moraes in 2021 before rallying for a finish.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Jiří Procházka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.

A pivotal light heavyweight contest will feature former champion Jiří Procházka against Khalil Rountree Jr. Both fighters are coming off significant victories over former champion Jamahal Hill, and both have recently experienced losses to Alex Pereira in title fights. This bout is seen by many as a potential eliminator for the next challenger in the light heavyweight division. Procházka, 32, known for his unconventional and aggressive striking style, often engages in high-risk, high-reward exchanges. Rountree Jr. possesses considerable knockout power and improved technical striking.

Expert picks are unanimous for Procházka. Brian Campbell noted the similarities in their explosive knockout power but highlighted Procházka’s physical advantages in height and reach. He anticipates a slow start turning into an exciting shootout, where Procházka’s unpredictable style thrives. Brookhouse acknowledged the inherent unpredictability of a Procházka fight, given his willingness to absorb damage while relentlessly pursuing knockout blows. Mahjouri emphasized Procházka’s offensive danger, tempered by defensive lapses, but ultimately believes Procházka will land a fight-ending shot against Rountree.

Featherweight Bout: Zhalgas Zhumagulov vs. Josh Emmett

The featherweight division will also be represented with a bout between Zhalgas Zhumagulov and Josh Emmett. Zhumagulov (15-6) is an experienced fighter looking to make a statement, while Emmett (18-4) is a veteran known for his powerful striking. The expert panel showed a strong lean towards Zhumagulov, with Brian Campbell, Brent Brookhouse, Shakiel Mahjouri, and Michael Mormile all picking him to win. Brandon Wise, however, sided with Emmett, suggesting a potential upset.

Middleweight Bout: Bo Nickal vs. Abus Magomedov

A compelling middleweight clash is scheduled between Bo Nickal and Abus Magomedov. Nickal (6-0) is an undefeated prospect with a strong wrestling pedigree, while Magomedov (26-6-1) is an experienced fighter with a diverse skillset. The expert picks for this fight were more split. Brian Campbell, Brent Brookhouse, and Brandon Wise predicted a win for Nickal, likely banking on his grappling dominance. Conversely, Shakiel Mahjouri and Michael Mormile picked Magomedov, possibly anticipating his experience and striking to be the difference.

UFC 320 promises a night of high-stakes mixed martial arts action, with championship gold on the line and significant implications for several divisions. Further detailed analysis and expert picks are available for those seeking in-depth insights into the full fight card and individual matchups.