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UFC 323 preview: Dvalishvili vs Yan and Pantoja’s title defense

UFC 323 promises thrilling matchups, featuring Dvalishvili defending his bantamweight title against Yan and Pantoja's flyweight challenge.

UFC 323 is set to be a riveting event, showcasing two championship bouts that will captivate fans worldwide. The main event features Merab Dvalishvili, the reigning bantamweight champion, going head-to-head with former titleholder Petr Yan. This rematch comes after Dvalishvili’s previous victory over Yan, where he secured a unanimous decision win.

Additionally, Alexandre Pantoja will defend his flyweight title against Joshua Van, making for an exhilarating night of fights.

Set to unfold at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, UFC 323 will commence with prelims starting at 6 p.m.

ET, followed by the main card at 10 p.m. ET, available via ESPN pay-per-view. For fans unable to catch the event live, various platforms such as Disney+ and the ESPN App will provide coverage, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the action.

Fight card breakdown

The fight card for UFC 323 is packed with talent, featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. In the main event, Merab Dvalishvili (21-4-0) will enter the octagon to defend his bantamweight championship. Known for his relentless pace and grappling skills, Dvalishvili has become a formidable force in the division. His opponent, Petr Yan (19-5-0), seeks redemption after their last encounter and is eager to reclaim the bantamweight crown.

Co-main event highlights

The co-main event will see the talented Alexandre Pantoja (30-5-0) face off against Joshua Van (15-2-0). Pantoja, a seasoned competitor, is on a hot streak, aiming for his ninth consecutive victory and his fifth successful title defense. Van, a newer contender, is riding high on a five-fight winning streak and is determined to upset the champion. This clash of styles promises to be a highlight of the evening.

Additional bouts to watch

Beyond the championship matches, the card features several exciting bouts that fans should keep an eye on. In the flyweight division, a match between Brandon Moreno and Tatsuro Taira is sure to deliver fireworks. Both fighters bring their own unique skills to the table, making this encounter a must-watch. Furthermore, legendary fighter Henry Cejudo will take on Payton Talbott in a bantamweight clash, adding another layer of excitement to the event.

Preliminary fights and early prelims

The preliminary card also features enticing matchups, including Grant Dawson against Manuel Torres and Terrance McKinney facing Chris Duncan. In the women’s flyweight division, Maycee Barber will take on Karine Silva, showcasing the rising talent in women’s MMA. Each fight holds the potential for thrilling moments and unexpected outcomes.

How to tune in

For fans eager to catch every punch and kick of UFC 323, the fights will be available through the ESPN App, with the main card accessible via pay-per-view. Early prelims will kick off the night at 6 p.m. ET, followed by prelims at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and other platforms. This structured broadcasting ensures that no fan will miss out on the action.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds for this electrifying night of fights. With Dvalishvili and Yan headlining the event, alongside Pantoja’s title defense, UFC 323 is poised to be a memorable showcase of mixed martial arts talent. Fans are encouraged to prepare for an adrenaline-fueled evening filled with high-stakes clashes and the thrill of championship glory.


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