Magomed Ankalaev won by technical knockout in the fifth round against Bogdan Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi. After the victory, he challenged Alex Pereira to a third fight to settle their rivalry.
Magomed Ankalaev returned to winning ways this Saturday at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The Russian defeated Bogdan Guskov by technical knockout in the fifth round of the main event at UFC Abu Dhabi, and immediately issued a direct challenge to Alex Pereira for a third fight.
The former light heavyweight champion needed almost five rounds to settle the bout. At 2:41 of the fifth round, referee Marc Goddard stopped the action after a series of punches from Ankalaev on Guskov on the ground.
Guskov accepted the fight with less than two weeks' notice, stepping in for the injured Khalil Rountree Jr. The Uzbek arrived with five consecutive victories but could not counter the Russian's control.
Fight development
The match began with few exchanges. Ankalaev dominated the centre of the octagon with straight punches and kicks, while Guskov waited for his opportunity to connect powerfully.
In the fourth round, the Russian took the fight to the ground, punished from above, and threatened with two rear-naked chokes. In the fifth, he achieved another takedown, escaped from a guillotine, and unleashed punches that forced the stoppage.
With this result, Ankalaev improves his professional record to 21 wins, two losses, one draw, and one no contest.
The challenge to Pereira
Immediately after winning, Ankalaev directed his words to Alex Pereira, known as 'Poatan'. “There’s someone out there who calls himself 'Chama' and said something like: 'Are you still alive?'. Well, if he wants to come and fight, I'm sure the UFC would also be delighted for that fight to take place,” he declared.
The rivalry between them is tied at one victory each. Ankalaev took the belt from Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC 313, and the Brazilian reclaimed it seven months later by knocking him out in the first round of their rematch.
The Russian had already stated before the fight with Guskov that he would be willing to move up to heavyweight to follow Pereira and make the trilogy happen.
Uncertain future
The third fight is not confirmed. Pereira now competes in heavyweight, while Ankalaev remains at 205 pounds (93 kg). The light heavyweight title is held by Carlos Ulberg, although he is temporarily injured.
The victory over Guskov places Ankalaev close to a new title opportunity, without ruling out the trilogy against Pereira. For fans, the potential fight would be one of the biggest attractions the UFC could organise in the coming months.
For now, Ankalaev awaits news from the company. His performance in Abu Dhabi brings him back to the forefront of the division and reignites one of the most intense rivalries at the moment.
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