Magomed Ankalaev is scheduled to defend his light heavyweight title against Alex Pereira in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 320. This event will take place on October 4 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with the championship belt on the line. The bout marks a pivotal moment for both fighters, as Ankalaev aims to solidify his status as champion after winning the belt earlier this year, while Pereira seeks to reclaim his position at the top of the division.
Cory Sandhagen Targets Bantamweight Championship Against Merab Dvalishvili
In the co-main event, bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili will defend his title for the third time in 2025 by facing challenger Cory Sandhagen. Dvalishvili has been one of the most active fighters this year, having secured victories over Umar Nurmagomedov and Sean O’Malley. Sandhagen, known for his striking prowess, is eager to capture the bantamweight title after pushing hard for this opportunity.
Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Could Decide Next Light Heavyweight Contender
A third notable fight added to UFC 320 features former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka taking on powerful contender Khalil Rountree Jr. Both fighters enter the bout on winning streaks, with Prochazka having defeated Jamahal Hill by TKO in January and Rountree securing a decision victory over Hill in June. The winner is expected to be in prime position for a future title shot at 205 pounds.
Event Announced by UFC President Dana White
The matchups for UFC 320 were officially confirmed by Dana White on Tuesday, signaling a major event on the UFC calendar that promises to deliver championship-level competition across multiple weight classes. As preparations continue, additional fights are anticipated to be announced, adding further depth to the card.
Significance of UFC 320 and What to Expect Next
This event highlights key championship battles and contender matchups that will shape the UFC landscape moving forward. Ankalaev’s rematch with Pereira offers the chance for definitive momentum in the light heavyweight division, while Sandhagen’s bantamweight title challenge could shift the power dynamics in that division. The Prochazka-Rountree fight also carries important implications for upcoming title contention. UFC fans can expect more developments as the fight card fills out in the weeks ahead.
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For Ankalaev, he has a chance to cement himself as champion after beating Pereira to win the title back in March with a unanimous decision over Pereira. Ever since then, Ankalaev has been pushing to book the rematch so he could hopefully vanquish Pereira once and for all.
” —Dana White, UFC President
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The fight serves as Pereira’s opportunity to climb back to the top of the light heavyweight mountain after he suffered his first loss at 205 pounds to Ankalaev. Prior to that setback, he rattled off five straight wins in the division including four in title fights.
” —Dana White, UFC President
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As for Dvalishvili, he’ll compete for the third time in 2025 as he attempts to fulfill his promise to remain one of the most active champions on the entire UFC roster. He already dispatched Umar Nurmagomedov and Sean O’Malley earlier in the year but now Dvalishvili takes on a noted striker in Sandhagen, who has been itching for his chance to finally compete for UFC gold.
” —Dana White, UFC President
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What fighting style is Cory Sandhagen?
A. Alexander was a college basketball player for the Virginia Cavaliers. In 1995, the San Antonio Spurs picked him in the NBA draft. He spent seven seasons playing in the NBA with teams such as the Spurs, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and Charlotte Bobcats.
Q. What type of fighter is Cory Sandhagen?
A. Cory James Sandhagen, born on April 20, 1992, is a mixed martial artist from the United States. He fights in the Bantamweight category in the UFC.