Opinion: The Ankalaev Dilemma: The Road to the Title Remains Frustratingly Long

Q: What happened in Magomed Ankalaev's most recent outing?

A: According to Sportsnet, the 34-year-old Russian returned to action in the main event of a UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Saturday. Ankalaev secured a TKO victory over Bogdan Guskov at the 2:41 mark of the fifth round. While the 33-year-old Guskov utilized a defensive strategy that left Ankalaev struggling for rhythm during the first three rounds, Sportsnet reports that Ankalaev shifted gears in the fourth. He took the Uzbekistan native to the mat and maintained control, eventually overwhelming Guskov in the fifth round to force the referee's intervention.

Q: Who was originally supposed to fight Ankalaev?

A: Sportsnet reports that Khalil Rountree Jr. was the fighter initially scheduled to face Ankalaev in the main event before Guskov stepped in as a short-notice replacement.

Q: Why is this win significant for Ankalaev's standing in the division?

A: In my opinion, this performance shows Ankalaev has finally stopped playing it safe. By dominating on the ground and forcing a finish, he has removed the questions surrounding his aggression. Per Sportsnet, this victory positions Ankalaev as the clear frontrunner to challenge for the light heavyweight title. However, the timeline is the issue: he is expected to face champion Carlos Ulberg only once the champion returns from a torn ACL in 2027.

Q: What is Ankalaev's recent track record leading up to this fight?

A: As reported by Sportsnet, Ankalaev had been out of action since UFC 320 in October. During that event, he lost the UFC light heavyweight title to Alex Pereira via a first-round knockout that ended just 80 seconds into his first title defense.

Q: Beyond the fight, what else was announced during the event in Abu Dhabi?

A: During the UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Guskov card, the UFC announced that they will return to the United Arab Emirates on Oct. 24 for UFC 333. Sportsnet notes the event will be held at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island, which has a capacity of roughly 18,000. While the fighters for that card are not yet known, Sportsnet highlights that this will be the 24th UFC event in Abu Dhabi and the 11th pay-per-view, following UFC 321: Aspinall vs. Gane on Oct. 25, 2025. Abu Dhabi currently holds the record for the most UFC events hosted outside the United States.