Summary
Brazil returned to the top of the UFC light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg). Alex Poatan , motivated to get revenge on Magomed Ankalaev , promised and delivered on his word in the octagon. This Saturday (4), in Las Vegas (USA), the renowned striker made the Russian eat his words, easily knocking him out in the first round, becoming champion of the category for the second time.
As expected, Poatan celebrated the important result, which evened the score in his rivalry with the Russian. Back at the top of the division, the Brazilian has two possible scenarios for his next fight: defending the belt, possibly against Carlos Ulberg , or venturing into the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg), seeking to win his third title in a different weight class in the UFC.
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On the other hand, Ankalaev saw his 14-fight winning streak come to an end. Defeated, the Russian wants to face his rival for the third time to settle the score, however, as he doesn't enjoy prestige with Dana White and the UFC's top brass, he may fall by the wayside, being overtaken by Jiri Prochazka or Ulberg.
Poatan mocks Ankalaev after his victory at UFC 320. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Poatan provokes Ankalaev
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In celebrating his victory, Poatan, just as he did after knocking out Jamahal Hill in 2024, downplayed Ankalaev. Furthermore, the Brazilian made a point of emphasizing that he only failed to beat his rival in their first fight in March because he wasn't 100%. Now, the renowned striker has indeed proven himself superior to the Russian.
Poatan Declaration
“ Revenge is never complete, it kills the soul and poisons it. This isn't revenge. I was prepared for this moment. I told everyone, but nobody believed me. I wasn't in a position to do it, but now I am, ” said the UFC champion.
Poatan destroys Ankalaev
The fight had barely begun when Poatan launched into the attack, ignoring the traditional initial glove touch. With an aggressive stance, the Brazilian unleashed low kicks on his opponent in succession.
Sharp, Poatan landed an overhand right that rocked the Russian. Ankalaev then attempted a takedown, but the Brazilian defended. On the ground, a furious Poatan unleashed a barrage of punches on the athlete and only stopped when referee Herb Dean called the end of the fight. Domination at UFC 320.
Poatan vs. Jon Jones?
“I wanted to leave a message for Jon Jones , out of respect for him and his entire family. I had a whole speech prepared. Let's all observe a minute of silence in respect for his brother (who passed away),” said Poatan, referring to Arthur Jones, Jon's brother, who died last Friday.
All UFC 320 Results
MAIN CARD
Light heavyweight (up to 93kg): Alex Poatan defeated Magomed Ankalaev by knockout (elbows) at 1:20 of round 1 – title fight.
Bantamweight (up to 61,2kg): Merab Dvalishvili defeated Cory Sandhagen by unanimous decision (49-45, 49-45, 49-46) – title fight
Light heavyweight (up to 93kg): Jiri Prochazka defeated Khalil Rountree by knockout (punches) at 3:04 of round 3.
Featherweight (up to 65,7kg): Youssef Zalal defeated Josh Emmett by submission (armbar) at 1:38 of Round 1.
Middleweight (up to 83,9kg): Joe Pyfer defeated Abus Magomedov by submission (rear-naked choke) at 1:46 of round 2.
PRELIMINARY CARD
Middleweight (up to 83,9 kg): Ateba Gautier defeated Treston Vines by technical knockout (elbows and punches) at 1:41 of round 1.
Featherweight (up to 65,7kg): Daniel Willycat defeated Joosang Yoo by knockout (punches) at 21 seconds of round 2.
Bantamweight (up to 61,2kg): Jakub Wiklacz defeated Patchy Mix by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Middleweight (up to 83,9 kg): Edmen Shahbazyan defeated André Sergipano by knockout (elbows) at 4:58 of round 1.
Welterweight (up to 77,1kg): Punahele Soriano defeated Nikolay Veretennikov by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Bantamweight (up to 61,2kg): Yana Santos defeated Macy Chiasson by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)
Bantamweight (up to 61,2kg): Farid Basharat defeated Chris Gutierrez by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)
Welterweight (up to 77,1kg): Ramiz Brahimaj defeated Austin Vanderford by submission (guillotine choke) at 2:24 of round 2.
Flyweight (up to 56,7kg): Veronica Hardy defeated Brogan Walker by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.
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