UFC 320: Championship Rematches and Strategic Prop Bets Command Attention in Las Vegas

UFC 320 is set for Saturday, featuring two pivotal championship bouts and a lineup of high-stakes matchups. The main event presents a highly anticipated light heavyweight championship rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira. In their initial encounter, Ankalaev successfully claimed the title by unanimous decision, a bout where the Dagestani fighter meticulously controlled the pace and dictated significant portions of the grappling exchanges, effectively neutralizing Pereira’s formidable striking prowess.

The co-main event features Merab Dvalishvili defending his bantamweight crown against Cory Sandhagen. Dvalishvili enters with one of the bantamweight division’s most compelling résumés. After losing his first two UFC fights in 2017 and 2018, Dvalishvili has compiled an extraordinary 13-fight winning streak, demonstrating unparalleled consistency and dominance. His list of defeated opponents includes current champion Sean O’Malley (twice), Umar Nurmagomedov, former champions Henry Cejudo and Petr Yan, and featherweight icon Jose Aldo. Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure, exceptional cardio, and high-volume takedown game have made him a formidable challenge. Across the Octagon, Cory Sandhagen, a technically proficient and dynamic striker, finally earns his opportunity for championship gold. This title shot arrives after Sandhagen, known for his unique striking angles and fight IQ, has faced disappointment in four separate title eliminator bouts in recent years, underscoring his persistent journey to the division’s pinnacle.

Beyond the championship attractions, the main card is bolstered by several other significant bouts. A light heavyweight clash between Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. is widely anticipated to be an explosive affair. Both fighters are celebrated for their aggressive, come-forward styles and formidable finishing power. Prochazka, a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, is known for his unorthodox and powerful striking, often engaging in high-risk, high-reward exchanges. Rountree Jr., with his heavy hands and improved technical striking, has also demonstrated a willingness to stand and trade, making this matchup a strong candidate for a Fight of the Night bonus. The winner of this encounter could significantly advance their position in the light heavyweight rankings, particularly after both fighters experienced losses in previous high-profile bouts against Alex Pereira.

Further down the card, veteran featherweight Josh Emmett makes his return to face the ascending Youssef Zalal in a critical crossroads battle. Emmett, a perennial contender known for his thunderous knockout power and remarkable durability, has recently navigated a challenging 1-3 run against top-tier competition. His opponent, Zalal, arrives with an impressive seven-fight win streak and has showcased significant improvements, particularly in his grappling. Zalal’s initial four UFC appearances highlighted his submission prowess, with three victories coming by way of tap-out. The Morocco-native’s well-rounded skill set and momentum present a stern test for the 40-year-old Emmett, offering a true measure of Zalal’s readiness for elite-level competition.

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Given the depth and competitive nature of the UFC 320 card, sports analysts and betting experts have meticulously reviewed all five main card fights scheduled for Saturday’s event in Las Vegas to identify strategic prop bets. The analytical team’s recent performance at UFC 319 concluded with a 2-3 record, adjusting the overall 2025 record to 20-18. All selected wagers adhere to a stringent criterion, with odds maintained at -250 or better to ensure value. Odds for the following selections are provided by DraftKings Sportsbook.

Main Card Prop Bet Analysis:

Abus Magomedov vs. Joe Pyfer – Fight to go the distance: No (-245)

This prop bet, situated within the designated odds range, is considered a robust option, particularly for parlay integration. Joe Pyfer is currently favored to win at -265, yet Abus Magomedov is recognized as a dangerous and versatile opponent capable of producing finishes. While recent fight statistics show Pyfer reaching decision in two of his last three contests and Magomedov in three of his last four, a comprehensive examination of their professional careers reveals a different pattern. Pyfer has only gone to the judges’ scorecards in three of his 17 career fights, indicating a strong propensity for finishes. Similarly, Magomedov has secured nine decision outcomes across his 35 professional bouts, a relatively low percentage given his fight count. Both fighters possess the power and finishing instincts to conclude the fight within the regulation time. This historical context, combined with their respective offensive capabilities, strongly suggests that the fight will conclude before reaching the judges’ scorecards.

Josh Emmett vs. Youssef Zalal – Youssef Zalal via submission (+450)

Veteran featherweight Josh Emmett, at 40 years old, faces a challenging period in his career, entering this bout on a 1-3 streak against high-caliber opponents in a division known for its youthful dynamism. In stark contrast, Youssef Zalal is perceived to be operating at a career-best level. Zalal is characterized as a physically imposing featherweight, combining significant strength with notable speed. His recent performances have highlighted a pronounced emphasis on his grappling game, where he averages over two takedowns per 15 minutes. Emmett’s takedown defense has shown susceptibility, with a documented success rate of only 46%. This vulnerability was notably exploited by Yair Rodriguez, who secured an arm-triangle choke against Emmett four fights ago. Zalal possesses a well-honed submission arsenal, adept at executing both rear-naked chokes from dominant back control and arm-triangle chokes when advancing position, as demonstrated in his victory against Jack Shore two fights prior. Given Zalal’s current form, his grappling focus, and Emmett’s defensive vulnerabilities on the ground, the +450 odds for a Zalal submission victory are considered a high-value proposition.

Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. – Under 1.5 rounds (+114)

This light heavyweight contest is anticipated to be a highly volatile and potentially short-lived affair, with a high probability of an early finish from either fighter. Jiri Prochazka has carved out a remarkably successful UFC career despite exhibiting a defensive style that has been described as "leaky." While Alex Pereira has twice capitalized on Prochazka’s defensive openings, Prochazka’s aggressive, wide-open striking style, characterized by unorthodox attacks and immense power, has consistently proven effective against other UFC opponents. Khalil Rountree Jr. is equally known for his willingness to engage in high-octane striking exchanges, as evidenced by his competitive and explosive performances. The combined stylistic attributes of these two fighters—both possessing significant knockout power and a propensity for engaging in firefights—strongly suggest that the bout is primed for big exchanges from the opening bell. Prochazka absorbs an average of 5.7 strikes per minute, while Rountree Jr. absorbs 4.24 strikes per minute, indicating their willingness to take damage to deliver it. These high strike absorption rates, coupled with both fighters’ proven ability to finish opponents with a single blow, underpin the analytical expectation that this explosive light heavyweight contest will conclude within the first 1.5 rounds.

Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cory Sandhagen – Merab Dvalishvili over 5.5 takedowns (-150)

The strategic rationale for this prop bet is firmly grounded in Merab Dvalishvili’s established fighting methodology and statistical output. Dvalishvili maintains an impressive average of 5.84 takedowns per 15 minutes. Crucially, this championship bout is scheduled for a full 25 minutes, providing ample time for his signature relentless grappling. While Cory Sandhagen possesses a respectable 63% takedown defense rate, this statistic is often against opponents who do not apply the continuous,