Here’s MMAmania.com’s UFC 324 betting odds ‘Weekend Lock’ … what’s yours?

UFC 324 is less than 24 hours away …

It all goes down this weekend (Sat., Jan. 24, 2026) inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. In the main event, two-time UFC Lightweight title challenger Justin Gaethjecollides withPaddy Pimblett for the interim Lightweight title.

As always, we’re back with another full year of MMAmania.com’s “Weekend Lock,” where we break down one bet we believe will cash when the chaos in “Sin City” settles. We also want to hear what our readers think (that’s you!), so tell us your most confident UFC 324 betting lock in the comments section below (full UFC 324 odds here).

I went 19-14 in 2025 (we started on UFC 313)

New year, new bets … Let’s get to it.

In the new co-main, Sean O’Malley and Song Yadong collide in a fun high-level striking matchup that promises fireworks. This week, I’m locking in O’Malley to win via Decision at +110.

Here’s Why:

This is O’Malley’s first three-round fight since his razor-thin decision win over Petr Yan in 2022 — a bout that proved he can fight patiently, manage distance, and rack up damage without forcing reckless exchanges. O’Malley remains one of the most precise and creative strikers in the sport. His timing, footwork, and ability to land clean shots from unorthodox angles make him a nightmare over extended minutes.

Motivation is also a major factor. O’Malley is coming off two straight losses, and he knows what’s at stake. A loss will be absolutely devastating for him, but a win likely puts him right back in the title conversation, especially given his star power. Expect a disciplined, measured approach — not a wild brawl. I think we’re going to see a smarter version of “Suga” who’s content to win rounds instead of chasing a highlight.

Yadong, meanwhile, is as tough as they come. He’s only been stopped once in his entire career, and that came against Cory Sandhagen via doctor stoppage. His durability is elite, and he’s shown time and again that he can absorb damage and keep pushing forward. However, Song tends to get hit — a lot. If he doesn’t mix in wrestling or grappling, he’s likely going to be outstruck over three rounds by the longer, sharper O’Malley.

That combination — O’Malley’s precision and Song’s toughness — makes a decision outcome highly appealing, especially at plus money.

What could go wrong?

The obvious danger is that O’Malley finally becomes the man to crack Song’s chin. If he finds a perfect shot, the decision prop goes out the window. While I don’t think Song wins this fight, O’Malley is dangerous enough to finish anyone at any moment.

Still, stylistically and situationally, O’Malley via Decision at +110 feels like one of the sharpest value plays on UFC 324.

For what it’s worth, this X/Twitter user is riding with O’Malley as well.

Sean O’Malley To Win By Decision: +110

Sean O’Malley To Win By KO/TKO/DQ: +300

Sean O’Malley To Win By Submission: +2200

Song Yadong To Win By Decision: +300

Song Yadong To Win By KO/TKO/DQ: +600

Song Yadong by Submission: +2200

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