UFC 323 Predictions: Can Merab or Pantoja Be Stopped?
The upcoming UFC 323 event in Las Vegas is generating significant buzz with two title fights set to headline the card. The event takes place on Saturday at 10 p.m. ET, with preliminaries starting at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN PPV and ESPN+.
UFC 323 Predictions: Can Merab or Pantoja Be Stopped?
Men’s Bantamweight Title Fight
Merab Dvalishvili, ranked third in the pound-for-pound standings, will defend his bantamweight title for the fourth time this year. His record stands at 21 wins and 4 losses. Dvalishvili, a nine-year veteran, faces former champion Petr Yan, who holds a record of 19 wins and 5 losses. This matchup marks a rematch from their earlier encounter in 2023, where Dvalishvili emerged victorious by unanimous decision.
- Fight Date: Saturday, December 3, 2025
- Location: Las Vegas
- Broadcast: 10 p.m. ET on ESPN PPV
If Dvalishvili wins, he will make history as the first UFC fighter to claim four title victories within a single year. His strategy revolves around overwhelming opponents with high output and relentless pace. Analysts predict that Yan will struggle to keep up, with insights suggesting a result similar to their previous bout with Dvalishvili winning four out of five rounds.
Men’s Flyweight Title Fight
In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja will defend his flyweight championship against the rising star Joshua Van, who is 15-2. Pantoja, boasting a record of 30 wins and 5 losses, has proven to be a formidable champion over his two-and-a-half-year reign.
- Pantoja’s Strengths: Consistency and experience in five-round fights.
- Van’s Challenge: Need to adapt to Pantoja’s multifaceted fighting style.
Predictions suggest that Pantoja will rely on his grappling skills to secure early takedowns. Analysts believe that if Van fails to manage the pace and pressure, Pantoja will likely end the fight with a submission, given his adeptness on the ground.
Betting Insights and Predictions
UFC analysts have provided betting insights for the fights, predicting a decision win for Dvalishvili and a submission victory for Pantoja. Betting favorite Dvalishvili is seen as a significant contender due to his active style and cardio.
Other notable matchups on the card include:
- Brunno Ferreira vs. Marvin Vettori: Ferreira is the slight underdog.
- Brandon Moreno vs. Tatsuro Taira: Moreno is favored to win.
UFC 323 promises an exciting lineup, featuring top-ranked fighters and high-stakes battles. The spotlight will particularly shine on Dvalishvili and Pantoja, as they look to solidify their legacies in the UFC.
