UFC - UFC 320
New customers only | Commercial content | 18+ age limit | T&Cs apply
by Devesh Jaganath | in UFC Predictions
We are back at the T-Mobile Arena this weekend for a blockbuster UFC 320 card headlined by the UFC light heavyweight title match between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira. Big Ank has a pro record of 21-1-1, 1NC, while Poatan is 12-3-0. Check out our match prediction for this blockbuster bout below!
In recent years, the Caucasus has reshaped modern MMA, producing fighters that are among the most technically gifted and mentally resilient, and Ankalaev is a prime example. The Dagestani powerhouse upset the odds by outworking Pereira over five rounds to capture the heavyweight strap at UFC 313 and now aims to do the double over the Brazilian in his first title defence.
Before UFC 313, Pereira was riding a wave of momentum and had built up an unbeaten run that had cemented his status as one of the division’s most feared fighters. However, Ankalaev handed him a test like never before - this then is more than a title fight for Poatan, it’s a shot at redemption!
Limited Offer. Currently at Stake
Magomed Ankalaev - Alex Pereira: Form Analysis
Magomed Ankalaev put himself on the radar of many promotions during his time with the WFCA, where he rose to become champion before the UFC came calling in March 2018.
His first match ended in a last-minute submission loss to Paul Craig, but after that, he went 12 fights unbeaten before earning his shot at the title, which he grabbed with both hands by outscoring Pereira at UFC 313.
During his unbeaten run, Ankalaev had overcome several top-notch fighters, including the likes of Ion Cutelaba, Thiago Santos, Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakic.
Alex Pereira will be featuring in his sixth straight title fight this weekend!
Indeed, after beating Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295, Poatan featured in and defended the title three times in quick succession against Jamahal Hill, Prochazka again, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
His defeat to Ankalaev was his fourth match in 13 months, and many still feel that attempting that many title defences in such a short space of time ultimately led to his downfall back in March.
Notably, it was a surprise that Ankalaev did not test Pereira’s grappling more in their last bout, which may have contributed to the Brazilian’s underperformance. However, having now had the best part of seven months to prepare for this rematch, Pereira should be much better equipped for any surprises in this match.
Limited Offer. Currently at Stake
Magomed Ankalaev & Alex Pereira Squad Analysis
In terms of the tale of the tape, Ankalaev weighed in at 205 lbs and stands 6ft 3 inches tall. He utilises an orthodox stance and has a reach of 75 inches.
When it comes to striking, the Dagestani lands 3.66 significant strikes per minute and has a 52% success rate with the significant strikes he attempts. He absorbs 2.46 significant strikes per minute and has a significant strike defence of 57%.
As far as wrestling goes, Ankalaev takes down opponents 0.80 times per 15 minutes with a success rate of 22%. He defends 87% of takedowns attempted on him.
Ankalaev is five years younger than Pereira!
Pereira also weighs in at 205 lbs, but does have a slight height and reach advantage at 6ft 4 inches and a wingspan of 79 inches. Unlike his opponent, the former champ prefers the stand-up game.
Poatan lands 5.00 significant strikes per minute at a success rate of 52%, 10% higher than his opponent. He allows 3.50 significant strikes per minute and has a 53% significant strike defence.
Finally, Pereira has a 50% takedown rate and defends 78% of takedowns attempted on him.
Magomed Ankalaev - Alex Pereira Key Points
- Ankalaev will be making his first title defence this weekend.
- Ankalaev failed to record a takedown against Pereira in their first match.
- Pereira’s last four wins all came via KO/TKO.
- Pereira has the height and reach advantage in this bout.
- Pereira lands 5.00 significant strikes per minute compared to Ankalaev’s 3.66.
Limited Offer. Currently at Stake
Our Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira Prediction
Given that Ankalaev lasted five rounds and got the decision back in March, it is unsurprising that he opens as the favourite in this bout. However, what is a little unexpected is just how short-priced he is with this being his first title defence.
Pereira has had seven months to prepare for this bout, which is significantly longer than in any of his title defences, and he now knows that he can defend the Dagestani’s takedowns, having done so expertly back in March. Therefore, our Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira prediction is Alex Pereira wins the match.
Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira - Other Interesting Predictions
Alex Pereira wins by KO/TKO
Ten of Alex Pereira’s 12 wins have come via KO/TKO. Additionally, the Brazilian was not taken down successfully in the last bout, and if he can keep this one standing up as well, we feel he will be able to find a finish against Ankalaev.
Use £/€50 free bets for the Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira game!
Are you planning to bet on the upcoming match between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira? Why not take advantage of the free bets from Bet365? Use our promo code STYVIP1 and open your account. Bet365 offers a welcome package of €/£50 free bet credits if you bet €/£10 as a new player.
Try your luck on this year's UFC 320! You need to make your qualifying bet of €/£10 within 30 days of opening an account and this can be on any sport with at least one selection priced at 1.2 (1/5) or bigger.
All tips are fully researched and given in good faith, but profits cannot be guaranteed.
Limited Offer. Currently at Stake
