The UFC has not had a fight card since the first half of December, but they are back. They return with a new media deal with Paramount+ and an awesome pay-per-view card. Paddy Pimblett is getting his first shot at an interim title against Justin Gaethje for the Interim Lightweight belt. The winner will fight Ilia Topuria at a later date.
There are also six other fights between ranked opponents on the card, including the co-main event between Sean O'Malley and Song Yadong. The early prelims start at 5:00 p.m. EST, and the main card gets underway at 9:00 p.m. EST. Check out our UFC 324 main card picks below.
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UFC 324 Main Card Odds, Picks & Predictions (2025)
(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)
Arnold Allen (+230) vs. Jean Silva (-310)
Jean Silva is coming off a knockout loss to Diego Lopes in September. It was a chaotic back-and-forth for as long as it lasted. It was Silva's first loss in the UFC, and he lost the fight due to his aggression. There was no patience in his game plan. Arnold Allen is a difficult opponent to solve. He is well-rounded, averaging 0.93 takedowns landed per 15 minutes.
Allen’s last fight was in 2024 against Giga Chikadze. Allen won via unanimous decision. He lost two consecutive fights before that against Movsar Evloev and Max Holloway. There is no shame in either of those losses.
Silva likely has an advantage when striking, which is the reason for the hefty favorite tag. Allen's wrestling is undervalued in this spot, mainly because Silva only defends 78% of takedowns. This matchup is a closer fight than the odds suggest, and it is worth taking a chance on the underdog at this price.
Bet: Arnold Allen Moneyline (+230)
Sean O'Malley (-220) vs. Song Yadong (+168)
Sean O'Malley has lost his last two fights to Merab Dvalishvili. He could not defend against Dvalishvili's wrestling. He finally has a new opponent in Song Yadong, who may try to wrestle O’Malleey, given Dvalishvili's success. O'Malley should fare better with his wrestling defense.
O'Malley has a clear striking advantage, as long as it stays out of close range. Yadong is dangerous with his short punches and boxing. O'Malley is extremely dangerous from range, with his kicks and long reach. He has a five-inch reach advantage. He lands 6.3 significant strikes, while absorbing 3.48 significant strikes per minute. O'Malley lands with 61% accuracy and defends 60% of his opponents’ significant strikes. He also uses movement and footwork to stay out of striking range, and I expect him to pick Yadong apart from range.
Yadong likely tries to use his wrestling in this matchup, but he does not suffocate opponents like Dvalishvili. He only averages 0.61 takedowns landed per 15 minutes, with 38% accuracy. He is not known for his top control, either. O'Malley should be able to get back to his feet if Yadong gets him to the mat. Yadong is a tough, talented fighter, so he should be able to go the distance. I do not think he can beat O'Malley on the scorecards.
Bet: Sean O'Malley to Win by Decision (+115)
