Former champion prioritizes Alex Poatan's opponent for next UFC title fight; find out why.

Poatan (left) face-off against Ankalaev (right) at UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction / UFC

The title change in the light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg) promised to bring closure to the category after Alex Poatan 's departure . However, the serious injury suffered by Carlos Ulberg may have created new possibilities amidst the uncertainty. For Kamaru Usman , for example, the New Zealander's possible inactivity could provide a new opportunity for Magomed Ankalaev . The former welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg) spoke about the subject in the latest edition of the 'Pound 4 Pound' podcast.

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According to the Nigerian Nightmare, a natural path for the category would be to facilitate Khamzat Chimaev 's move up in weight . The Chechen defends his middleweight title (up to 83,9 kg) against Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328 , and has already spoken on several occasions about his desire to pursue a double championship.

“If Chimaev enters the octagon and defends his title, and decides to move up a weight class, Ulberg could be sidelined for 9 to 12 months. Interim title or title abdication. Khamzat Chimaev versus Magomed Ankalaev ,” he stated.

Kamaru Usman proposes Khamzat Chimaev vs Magomed Ankalaev for the undisputed light heavyweight belt 👀🔥

"If Chimaev goes out there and defends his title and he decides to go up, Ulberg is out potentially for 9–12 months. Interim title or vacate the title. Khamzat Chimaev … pic.twitter.com/78o5sOGvKp

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 23, 2026

Ankalaev has not competed since the rematch with Poatan.

Poatan taunts Ankalaev in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

First-ranked in the light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg) and former champion, Magomed Anakalev shocked the world by dominating Alex Poatan at UFC 313. However, the rematch brought a completely different result for the Russian. Still in the first round, the Brazilian managed to reclaim the category crown by knocking out his rival without much difficulty. Since then, there is no scheduled date for his return to the world's most famous octagon.

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