Glover Teixeira predicted that Magomed Ankalayev would be UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/X
New UFC light heavyweight champion, Magomed Ankalayev received great moral encouragement four years ago, when no one else and no one less than Glover Teixeira predicted his title win in the organization (watch below). At the time, the Russian was coming off a victory over Volkan oezdemir, while the technician Alex Poatán had just become the king of the category.
“You will be world champion,” said Glover, who was responded with “Inshallah (God willing)” and was met with a shout-out from the Russian athlete, who asked for a photo with the veteran.
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Since then, Ankalaev has had two wins, one draw, one no-contest fight and two more triumphs until he beat Poatan in UFC 313 and finally being able to buckle the belt and raise his arms celebrating the prediction made by Glover in 2021. At 32 years old, the Russian athlete joined the select group of champions in the category.
Considered an underdog by bookmakers, Ankalaev managed to nullify Poatan's strategy in a fight that lasted five rounds and was marked by the great skill displayed by both athletes. On that occasion, the Russian managed to overcome his rival by unanimous decision of the judges in a performance praised by many experts.
M. Ankalaev in victory over Alex Poatán No. UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ankalaev_magomed
Willing to defend his title quickly, Ankalaev opened the doors for an immediate rematch with Poatan and is now awaiting an official announcement from the organization regarding the date and location of the fight.
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