The countdown to UFC 320 is officially on, and the mixed martial arts community is buzzing with anticipation as Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira prepare to clash in a highly anticipated light heavyweight title fight. The rematch is set to take place in Las Vegas, with both fighters entering the octagon with something to prove.

Among the many voices weighing in on this explosive matchup, former UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis has added his prediction to the mix—and it’s a surprising take that has sparked intense debate among fans and analysts alike.

The Stakes of UFC 320

The main event of UFC 320 will determine who rules the light heavyweight division. Both Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira are elite fighters with championship pedigrees, making this rematch one of the most compelling bouts of the year.

Ankalaev’s First Victory: The Russian stunned the MMA world earlier this year at UFC 313 when he defeated Pereira in dominant fashion. Known more for his wrestling, Ankalaev shocked fans by choosing to stand and strike with Pereira—a former world champion kickboxer—and outclassed him across five rounds.

Pereira’s Redemption Arc: Pereira, nicknamed “Poatan,” admitted after the fight that he had only been at 40% due to lingering injuries. Since then, he has recovered and insists he is now back to full strength, motivated to reclaim the title he once held.

This sets the stage for a storyline rich in drama: a dominant champion seeking to prove his first win was no fluke, and a former king determined to redeem himself in front of the world.

Dricus Du Plessis Enters the Conversation

As a former champion himself, Dricus Du Plessis has been following the developments closely. Known for his sharp fight IQ and ability to break down matchups, Du Plessis recently gave his thoughts on the upcoming showdown during an appearance on Fight Forecast.

His analysis surprised many fans. While acknowledging Ankalaev’s brilliance in the first fight, Du Plessis leaned toward Alex Pereira as the likely victor this time around.

“The thing with Pereira is, he’s a brilliant fighter in the sense that he walks you down, he’s intimidating because he hits so hard, he doesn’t care if he walks into the fire,” Du Plessis explained.

“Ankalaev was smart in the first fight to stay out the way and then get all the way in to smother him and put him on the back foot. When Pereira’s on the back foot, he’s not the best, that’s not his style. But I don’t see this fight going the distance this time — and I’m putting my money on Pereira.”

Why Du Plessis Thinks Pereira Can Win

Du Plessis’ analysis is rooted in his understanding of striking dynamics and fighter psychology. According to him, Pereira’s style works best when he is pressuring opponents, forcing them to retreat, and landing his devastating power shots.

The Forward Pressure Factor
Pereira thrives when moving forward. His signature style is built on cutting off the cage, walking down opponents, and forcing them into uncomfortable exchanges. Du Plessis pointed out that if Ankalaev engages in prolonged striking exchanges, he risks walking into Pereira’s power.

Ankalaev’s Strategy in the First Fight
In their first clash, Ankalaev succeeded by disrupting Pereira’s rhythm. He smothered the Brazilian whenever the distance closed, nullifying his power. But as Du Plessis noted, now Pereira knows what to expect, and adjustments will be critical.

Pereira’s Renewed Health and Focus
One major difference between UFC 313 and UFC 320 is Pereira’s condition. After admitting he fought injured previously, “Poatan” now claims to be in peak physical form, which could significantly impact his performance.

Ankalaev’s Path to Victory

While Du Plessis leaned toward Pereira, he didn’t dismiss Magomed Ankalaev’s strengths. The Russian remains one of the most technically complete fighters in the division.

Defensive Awareness: Ankalaev showcased incredible composure and defensive acumen in their first meeting, avoiding Pereira’s knockout blows while landing clean shots of his own.

Wrestling Threat: Though he didn’t rely heavily on wrestling in their first fight, Ankalaev has one of the most effective grappling arsenals in the division. If he chooses to use it, this could neutralize Pereira’s striking completely.

Cardio and Durability: Ankalaev has proven he can go five rounds without fading, something that has troubled Pereira in past fights.

For Ankalaev, the key will be mixing striking with well-timed takedowns to keep Pereira guessing and prevent him from settling into his dangerous forward-pressure rhythm.

Pereira’s Keys to Success

If Pereira wants to reclaim the light heavyweight title at UFC 320, he will need to make significant adjustments.

Start Strong: Pereira cannot afford a slow start. Ankalaev thrives on rhythm and control, so Pereira must assert pressure from the opening bell.

Cut Off the Cage: Pereira’s kickboxing background gives him the tools to limit Ankalaev’s movement. If he traps the Russian against the fence, his knockout power could change the fight instantly.

Defend the Takedown: While Ankalaev didn’t lean on his wrestling last time, Pereira must prepare for it. Shutting down takedown attempts will allow him to stay in striking range.

Fan and Fighter Reactions

As the fight draws near, predictions across the MMA community remain split.

Fans of Ankalaev argue that his dominance in the first fight proves he has Pereira’s number. They point to his durability, patience, and superior fight IQ.

Supporters of Pereira believe that his injuries played a huge role in his lackluster performance at UFC 313. They expect a much sharper and more dangerous version of “Poatan” at UFC 320.

Du Plessis’ endorsement of Pereira adds weight to the Brazilian’s case. Many fighters respect Du Plessis for his analytical eye, and his belief that Pereira can win by knockout has fueled fan debates online.

A Fight That Defines Legacies

The significance of UFC 320 extends beyond just a title defense or reclamation.

For Magomed Ankalaev, a second victory over Pereira would cement his reign as legitimate and silence any doubters who attribute his first win to luck or an off-night for the Brazilian.

For Alex Pereira, victory would add to his legacy as a two-division champion who reclaimed his title in spectacular fashion. It would also demonstrate his resilience and ability to make adjustments at the highest level.

This fight isn’t just about a belt—it’s about proving who belongs at the very top of the light heavyweight division.

Du Plessis’ Prediction in Context

While Du Plessis’ choice of Pereira may have surprised some, it reflects a broader truth in MMA: no fight is ever the same the second time around.

Rematches often play out differently due to adjustments, psychology, and evolving strategies. Even dominant victories in the first meeting can be overturned in a rematch, especially when a fighter like Pereira has the ability to end a fight with a single punch or kick.

Du Plessis’ prediction underscores the unpredictability of mixed martial arts, where styles make fights and one moment of brilliance can change everything.

What to Expect at UFC 320

As fight night approaches, anticipation continues to grow. With Dricus Du Plessis’ bold prediction adding fuel to the fire, fans are left to wonder: will Magomed Ankalaev once again outclass Pereira, or will the Brazilian’s power and renewed focus lead to a stunning knockout?

What is certain is that UFC 320 promises fireworks. With both men hungry for victory and legacies on the line, this fight has all the ingredients of a classic.

The eyes of the MMA world will be on Las Vegas as Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira step into the octagon once again, with the light heavyweight title hanging in the balance.

And thanks to Du Plessis’ intriguing take, fans now have one more layer of excitement to consider as the countdown continues.