Poatan questions the judges' decision and says about Ankalaev's style on the fence at UFC 313: 'I hurt more'

Poatan is defeated by Ankalaev in the UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Alex Poatán lost the light heavyweight belt (up to 93 kg) to Magomed Ankalayev No. UFC 313, held this Saturday (8), after a unanimous decision by the judges. The Brazilian, who faced difficulties against the Russian's pressure style, contested the verdict in a post-fight interview and criticized his opponent's strategy on the grid.

“He held me against the fence. It’s a game he plays, everyone knows that. But putting me against the fence, doing nothing and giving him the win influences everyone to play a game like that,” declared Poatan.

See too

Poatan defends takedowns, but is surprised on his feet by Ankalaev and loses belt at UFC 313

Video: Watch the best moments of Alex Poatan vs Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313

#STORIES – UFC 313 Results

The former champion then downplayed the performance of the new king of the category. He even suggested that Ankalaev's victory could encourage more conservative fights.

“In the cage, I hurt him more than he hurt me. The difference is that he had his back to the cage. If that wins, fighters will do it. It becomes boring and nobody wants to see it,” he added.

Despite his impeccable defense against Ankalaev's takedowns, the Brazilian had trouble stopping the Russian on his feet. The challenger surprised with his precision in strikes such as the straight that hit Poatan's face in the second round, a crucial moment in which the Brazilian retreated to recover.