Magomed Ankalayev is UFC champion. Photo: UFC Reproduction
Current light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg.), Magomed Ankalayev prepares to defend title in rematch against Alex Poatán on the 4th of October, UFC 320Despite being ever closer to one of the biggest fights of his career, the Russian appears to be keeping an eye on potential opponents who could come along and try to dethrone him.
Present at a martial arts event, Ankalaev was asked about his achievement Khamzat Shimaev No. UFC 319, when he became the new middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg). To avoid provocation, the Russian praised the wolf's performance and did not hesitate to welcome the Emirati if the athlete changes weight classes in the future.
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"Yes, I saw Khamzat fight. I congratulate him on this victory. He proved, he showed how powerful he is, that he can be big and strong. He dominated the fight for five rounds. I don't think that's easy (...) I don't know, I'm still at this weight, if anyone wants to move up, they'll look at my belt. I always say 'welcome,' no problem. If they move up, they will move up, there's no problem with energy," Ankalaev said in an interview with the channel. Ushatayka.
Despite the statement, Ankalaev is apparently not in Chimaev's sights. Speaking before winning the title, the Emirati stated that he wants to face Alex Poatán in the 93kg division, regardless of whether the Brazilian holds the division title or not. The statement has not yet been responded to by the Brazilian.
On the other hand, Chimaev wants to become the first athlete to hold three UFC belts. Currently at middleweight, the fighter hasn't ruled out returning to welterweight (up to 77,1 kg) to face the champion, and he considers light heavyweight an affordable option.
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