Magomed Ankalaev speaks candidly about his opponent: “This is a warm-up fight”

Magomed Ankalaev makes no secret of the fact that the change in opponent ahead of the UFC Abu Dhabi event didn’t make much of an impression on him. The former light heavyweight champion admitted that he views the bout with Bogdan Guskov primarily as an opportunity to return to the Octagon.

Ankalaev was originally scheduled to face Khalil Rountree in the main event. However, the American suffered an injury and withdrew from the bout less than two weeks before the event. With such short notice, it was difficult for the organization to find a replacement, and the ninth-ranked fighter, Bogdan Guskov, ultimately stepped in.

Ankalaev: It’s more of a warm-up fight

Although Guskov is ranked among the top ten in the light heavyweight division, Ankalaev does not believe that a victory over him would have a significant impact on his standing. As he himself admitted, his primary goal is to return to competition.

– It’s just a fight that’s supposed to get me back on track. You could say it’s a warm-up bout. I understand that this is a huge opportunity for Bogdan. He’s ranked ninth, so the chance to fight me could completely change his career. It’s a big deal for him. He’ll want to take my spot and make the most of this opportunity, but jumping straight to the very top will be very difficult for him.

The Dagestani fighter noted that this will definitely be the biggest challenge of Guskov’s career so far. From his perspective, a win won’t change much, but he’s glad the event didn’t end up without a “Fight of the Night.”

– Of course, I was disappointed that Khalil couldn’t fight. I had been preparing specifically for him. The last-minute change of opponent itself wasn’t a problem, though. On the contrary—I’m glad I have someone to fight and that someone agreed to save this bout.

Ankalaev also revealed that Guskov was the only one who accepted the UFC’s offer without hesitation.

– Guskov was the only person who said “yes” right away. I understand the other fighters. This is a professional sport, and it’s a very serious decision. Stepping into the ring against the current number one in the rankings without a full training camp could have disastrous consequences for their careers. I don’t hold it against anyone.

For Magomed Ankalaev, this will be his first fight since his loss to Alex Pereira. In their rematch, the Dagestani fighter lost by technical knockout in the first round and lost his light heavyweight championship belt. Now he will look to prove that he still belongs among the division’s elite and re-enter the fight for the top titles.