Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Prediction, Betting Pick, Latest Odds for UFC 324 for Bantamweight Battle
Sean O'Malley is back after two straight losses to Merab, can he bounce back against Song Yadong at UFC 324 tonight? O'Malley is a decent favorite in this bantamweight clash as he looks to snap his losing streak in the co-main event. Peter Alexis breaks down this Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley prediction and best bet for Saturday, January 24th at UFC 324.
Peter Alexis - January 24, 2026, 9:45 PM EST
4 Minute ReadSong Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Prediction: Can Suga Sean Snap Losing Streak at UFC 324 in Las Vegas?
Former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley returns to the Octagon at UFC 324 looking to steady the ship after a difficult end to 2025. Once the face of the division, O’Malley saw his title reign come to a halt with back to back losses to Merab Dvalishvili, who neutralized his striking with relentless pressure and wrestling. Now, the question is whether “Suga Sean” can reset and reassert himself among the elite.
Standing across from him is Song Yadong, the ever dangerous “Kung Fu Kid” who has quietly climbed into the top five. Song is younger, powerful, and far more battle tested than many casual fans realize. He has won three of his last four fights and continues to show improvements in patience and defensive awareness, making this one of the most intriguing stylistic matchups on the card.
For O’Malley, this fight is less about the belt and more about momentum. A convincing win puts him right back into the title mix. A loss would raise serious questions about his ceiling against pressure heavy contenders in the division.
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Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Odds
- Moneyline: Yadong (+180), O'Malley (-220)
Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Date, Time, and Where to Watch
- Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Time: 11:00 PM ET (Estimated Fight Time)
- Where to Watch: Paramount+
Click here for complete Yadong vs. O'Malley odds
Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Prediction
O’Malley enters as the favorite, but not overwhelmingly so, which reflects both his elite skill set and the uncertainty created by the Merab losses. Against Dvalishvili, O’Malley struggled to find consistent offense when forced backward. Song Yadong does not wrestle like Merab, but he does pressure, throw heavy combinations, and punish opponents who linger in the pocket.
That said, this matchup plays far more to O’Malley’s strengths. Song prefers striking exchanges, and while his power is real, he can be hittable over longer stretches. O’Malley’s timing, length, and shot selection remain among the best in the division, especially when he can operate at range and dictate tempo.
Recent fight history also points toward a longer contest. O’Malley’s last few wins prior to the Merab losses came by decision, as he leaned into control and precision rather than chasing finishes. Song has also shown durability, with his last three fights all going the distance. Neither fighter is reckless early, and both tend to build as rounds progress.
Song’s path to victory likely involves pushing a fast pace and trying to back O’Malley up repeatedly, hoping to land the bigger moments. O’Malley’s path is cleaner. Stick behind movement, pick shots, and win rounds on volume and accuracy. Over five or three rounds, that technical edge matters.
Song Yadong vs. Sean O'Malley Pick
- Pick: Sean O'Malley By Decision (+115) Check out these best odds at FanDuel Sportsbook odds
O’Malley does not need a finish to get back on track. With both fighters showing durability and a recent tendency to go the distance, a measured, technical decision win for the former champion offers strong value at plus money.
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