UFC 320: Witness Ankalaev and Pereira Clash Again in Las Vegas

UFC 320 is set to electrify Las Vegas on October 4, 2025, with one of the most anticipated fight cards of the year. Headlining the event at T-Mobile Arena is a light heavyweight championship rematch between reigning champion Magomed Ankalaev and former titleholder Alex Pereira. Their first encounter at UFC 313 saw Ankalaev claim the belt by unanimous decision, outstriking Pereira and using his clinch game to neutralize the Brazilian’s dangerous stand-up arsenal. With tensions running high, the rematch promises even more drama as both fighters look to make a definitive statement in the division. The co-main event features a bantamweight title clash, as dominant champion Merab Dvalishvili defends his crown against rising contender Cory Sandhagen. Dvalishvili, known for his relentless wrestling and suffocating pressure, is on a remarkable 13-fight win streak. Sandhagen, however, brings a dynamic striking style and solid endurance, making this one of the most intriguing stylistic matchups in the division this year. Looking at the numbers, Ankalaev enters as the -260 favorite, while Pereira is priced as a +210 underdog according to the latest odds from ESPN MMA. Ankalaev’s technical approach and ability to control the clinch were key in their first meeting, but Pereira’s resilience—having reportedly fought with a hand injury and illness—was impressive. Pereira, UFC’s breakout star of 2024 and the division’s most dangerous striker, will look to turn the tables if fully healthy, especially after stifling all 12 of Ankalaev’s takedown attempts previously. Expert predictions for the main event are split: some analysts, including Brent Brookhouse and Brian Campbell from CBS Sports, lean toward Pereira’s knockout potential and improved preparation, while others see Ankalaev’s disciplined clinch work and tactical edge prevailing again. In the bantamweight co-main, Dvalishvili is a heavy -360 favorite over Sandhagen (+280). Dvalishvili’s work rate is unmatched—he averages more than 6 takedowns per 15 minutes—and his striking has evolved enough to keep elite challengers at bay. Yet, Sandhagen’s unpredictability and cardio could pose problems if he can keep the fight standing. Dvalishvili himself has promised to seek a knockout, while Sandhagen remains confident his wrestling can neutralize the champion’s primary weapon. Elsewhere on the card, former champion Jiri Prochazka faces heavy-hitting Khalil Rountree Jr. in a bout that promises fireworks. Featherweight veteran Josh Emmett looks to derail the momentum of rising prospect Youssef Zalal. In the middleweight division, Joe Pyfer seeks to prove himself against Abus Magomedov. For bettors and analysts, the main card offers value opportunities: Ankalaev’s control-based game could mean another decision, while Pereira’s knockout threat is ever-present if he can maintain range. In the co-main, Dvalishvili’s relentless pace makes him a logical favorite, but Sandhagen’s ability to land unpredictable strikes could disrupt the champion’s rhythm. With a stacked lineup and high stakes in multiple divisions, UFC 320 is shaping up as a pivotal night in the MMA calendar. For live updates and in-depth analysis throughout fight week, follow the official UFC Twitter and stay tuned to CBS Sports MMA.