UFC 320: Merab Dvalishvili vs Cory Sandhagen Preview and Prediction

The bantamweight division could finally get its next title challenger settled when Merab Dvalishvili faces Cory Sandhagen in the co main event of UFC 320. Both fighters have been circling a title shot for years but constant reshuffling at the top has delayed their opportunity. A clear win here should guarantee a meeting with the champion next.

Merab comes into this fight carrying one of the most relentless styles in the sport. His pressure never fades and his ability to chain takedowns forces opponents into uncomfortable pacing. He does not always land heavy ground and pound but his control time breaks rhythm and drains energy. Very few fighters can match his cardio and even fewer can stop his single minded determination.

Sandhagen is the opposite in style. He is slick on the feet with constant movement and sharp angles. His elbows and flying knees make him a danger in transitions, especially when opponents attempt level changes. He has shown improving wrestling of his own, particularly in his win against Rob Font where he surprised many by dominating with top control. The question is whether that success can be replicated against someone as tenacious as Merab.

SHOP: Kickboxing Pads

Tale of the Tape

Attribute	Merab Dvalishvili	Cory Sandhagen
Age	33	32
Height	5’6″	5’11”
Reach	68″	70″
Record	17-4	17-4

Fight Breakdown

Sandhagen will look to maintain distance early with jabs, front kicks and lateral movement. His footwork is one of his strongest weapons and he will need it to avoid being pushed against the fence. Merab is unlikely to be discouraged by early strikes and will shoot repeatedly until he finds a grip. Even failed attempts can be effective as they slow Sandhagen’s output.

If Sandhagen can create scrambles rather than accept positions he has a path to frustrate Merab. The danger comes when he is stuck flat against the cage with limited room to pivot. Merab thrives in those pockets. Every minute spent defending takedowns is a minute not spent striking and that is where Merab builds his leads on the scorecards.

Prediction

This matchup comes down to whether Sandhagen can stay upright for long enough stretches to sway the judges. His striking is the cleaner of the two but Merab only needs a few dominant positions each round to steal momentum. Over five rounds the physical grind likely adds up.

Prediction: Merab Dvalishvili by decision