UFC 320: Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira 2 – Prefight Breakdown, Odds & Who Has the Edge

The wait is almost over. On October 4, 2025, the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship will once again be on the line as reigning champion Magomed Ankalaev faces former two-division king Alex Pereira in their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 320, live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

This bout follows their tactical first encounter at UFC 313, where Ankalaev claimed a close decision victory to capture the title. Now, Pereira seeks redemption and a chance to prove that the first result was only a glimpse of what he can truly bring inside the Octagon.

🔥 The Stakes

For Ankalaev, this fight is about validation—cementing his position as the most complete light heavyweight on the roster. For Pereira, it’s about vengeance and legacy—becoming a two-time champion and continuing his incredible run after moving up from middleweight.

🧠 Tale of the Tape

• Magomed Ankalaev – 19-1-1 (Champion)
• Alex Pereira – 10-3 (Former Champion)
• Height: Pereira 6’4″ | Ankalaev 6’3″
• Reach: Pereira 79″ | Ankalaev 75″
• Style: Ankalaev – Counter Striker / Grappler | Pereira – Elite Kickboxer / Power Puncher

⚖️ Who Has the Advantage?

🥋 Ankalaev’s Technical Edge

Magomed Ankalaev enters the rematch with a tactical edge in defensive awareness and cage control. His ability to neutralize power punchers with distance management and well-timed counters gives him a high chance to dictate the fight’s pace. Expect Ankalaev to mix striking with clinch control, testing Pereira’s gas tank over five rounds.

🥊 Pereira’s Knockout Power

Alex Pereira remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport. His left hook is legendary, and his low kicks can compromise any opponent’s movement early. Pereira has focused this camp on improving takedown defense and cardio—two key areas exposed in their first encounter. If he lands early, Ankalaev could be in trouble.

💡 Intangibles

• Pereira reportedly ballooned from 204 lbs to 232 lbs post-weigh-in—expect stronger clinch exchanges.
• Ankalaev remains unbeaten in 12 straight UFC fights—confidence and momentum are on his side.
• Both fighters claim to be “100 % healthy” entering UFC 320 after minor injuries earlier this year.

📈 Betting Odds (as of fight week)

• Ankalaev: -175 (Favorite)
• Pereira: +145 (Underdog)

Oddsmakers expect another close contest, with Ankalaev’s consistency slightly favored over Pereira’s knockout threat.

🎙️ Prefight Comments

At the UFC 320 press conference, tensions flared. Pereira promised a “different version” of himself, saying he fought at only 40 percent at UFC 313. Ankalaev responded confidently: “There is no luck in my fights. I beat him once, and I will beat him again.”

📺 Where to Watch UFC 320 Live

• ESPN+ (US)
• UFC Fight Pass (Worldwide)
• UFC YouTube (Highlights & Press Conference)

🔮 Prediction

This fight may come down to pace and patience. If Pereira can cut off the cage and unleash combinations early, he could reclaim the belt with a statement knockout. But if Ankalaev maintains composure, controls distance, and drags Pereira into deeper waters, the Russian may once again walk away with his hand raised.

Prediction: Magomed Ankalaev (by decision or late TKO)

📰 Final Thoughts

With high-stakes drama, contrasting styles, and redemption on the line, UFC 320: Ankalaev vs Pereira 2 promises to be one of 2025’s most compelling matchups. Expect fireworks, strategy, and world-class striking as the Light Heavyweight title takes center stage in Las Vegas.

Stay tuned to BoxingVideo.org for the official UFC 320 fight replay and post-fight analysis right after the event.