UFC 320 Josh Emmett vs Youssef Zalal Predictions, Picks & Odds

Youssef Zalal is stepping up against Josh Emmett in our featured UFC 320 undercard clash, and the winner of this fight will be a serious contender in the featherweight division.

Zalal is a -500 favorite in the latest UFC odds, and I expect him to outlast Emmett at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas tonight.

Here are my free UFC 320: Emmett vs. Zalal predictions for Saturday, October 4.

Emmett vs Zalal prediction and best bet

• My fight prediction: Zalal moneyline (-500 at BET99)
  
  
• My best bet: Over 2.5 rounds (-270 at BET99)

Fight analysis
Josh Emmett is 40 years old and slowing down, coming off a loss to Lerone Murphy that underscored his decline. Once a top contender with a strong wrestling base, Emmett has since transitioned into a heavy-handed striker. 

Meanwhile, Youssef Zalal’s return to the UFC after a four-fight skid and subsequent release is one of the better comeback stories of late. After refining his skills on the regional circuit, he’s now on a four-fight win streak that includes three submissions and a February decision over Calvin Kattar, where he dominated early before easing off in the third round.

Statistically, Zalal excels on defense, absorbing just 1.8 significant strikes per minute while landing 3.07 of his own. His grappling is a major strength, with a knack for chaining takedowns into submissions.

Emmett still carries knockout power and remains difficult to ground, landing 3.75 significant strikes per minute with a steady work rate. His recent KO of Bryce Mitchell is proof that he can still produce highlight finishes.

However, against a composed, technically sound fighter like Zalal, relying solely on power may not be enough. Emmett’s biggest path is forcing a gritty stand-up battle, but Zalal’s defensive discipline and grappling advantage should tilt the fight his way. 

Best bet analysis
Both fighters are durable, and neither is likely to fade quickly. Zalal will push for takedowns and control, while Emmett will look for one big shot.

Whether it’s Zalal grounding things out or Emmett stalking on the feet, there’s going to be a lot of posturing, clinching, and defensive awareness going on that ensures nothing dramatic will happen until later in the fight.

Josh Emmett vs Youssef Zalal odds

Method of Victory	Emmett	Zalal
To win outright	+375	-475
To win by KO/TKO	+625	+750
To win by decision	+950	-210
To win by submission	+4500	+600
Draw	+5000	+5000

Odds as of 10-4.

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Josh Emmett vs Youssef Zalal tale of the tape

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