Merab Dvalishvili will be looking to make history and break the UFC record for the most bantamweight title defences when he puts his stap on the line against the experienced Petr Yan in Las Vegas. Here, we take a closer look at this much-anticipated rematch and pick out some of the best bets along the way.
UFC 323 Odds: Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan
*Odds correct at 15:00 on 04/12/2025. Odds subject to change.
Given his status as reigning champion and his previous victory over Yan, Dvalishvili enters UFC 323 as the clear betting favourite according to the best online bookies.
It is worth revisiting their first meeting. Dvalishvili won a unanimous decision after dominating every round, doing exactly what he is known for – non-stop wrestling pressure.
He attempted a staggering 49 takedowns, landing 11 and forcing Yan to defend almost constantly. Even when the Russian stayed on his feet, he was fighting off takedowns rather than striking in his preferred rhythm.
Yan is one of the cleanest close-range boxers in the UFC, but he needs time to find timing and momentum. He starts slowly, building round by round.
That is exactly what makes Dvalishvili a nightmare stylistic matchup. From the opening bell, he smothers opponents with pace and pressure, never allowing them to settle. Yan is an elite fighter and a former champion, but Dvalishvili remains his tactical kryptonite.
UFC 323: Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan bet builder
| Market | Odds (Bookmaker) | Return from £10 |
|---|---|---|
| Over 4.5 Rounds | 2/7 (Ladbrokes) | £12.86 |
| Fight to go the Distance | 3/10 (Ladbrokes) | £13.00 |
| Merab Dvalishvili to Win by Decision | 4/9 (Ladbrokes) | £14.44 |
| 1.41/1 (Ladbrokes) | £24.14 |
*Odds correct at 15:00 on 04/12/2025. Odds subject to change.
Dvalishvili rarely finishes opponents. Instead, he overwhelms them with cardio, positional control and relentless takedowns.
A massive 76% of his wins have come via unanimous decision, and the blueprint for beating Yan has already been demonstrated.
With that in mind, the smart money is on the fight to go the distance, and with Dvalishvili to defend his title courtesy of a decision. Our three selections with Ladbrokes come up to 1.41/1 odds, meaning a £10 stake will return £24.14.
