Magomed Ankalaev admitted he made a mistake by not following the instructions he received before his rematch against Alex Poatan . Knocked out by the Brazilian in just 80 seconds at UFC 320 in October 2025, the Russian revealed that he chose to ignore the recommendations and entered the fight injured , a decision that ultimately cost him the light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg).
In an interview with 'MMA Junkie', Ankalaev explained that he was facing specific health problems at the time and was even advised by several people to withdraw from the fight, as the bout could be rescheduled. Even so, the fighter stated that he believed he was fit to compete and decided to go ahead without considering the advice.
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“I had some specific health problems at the time and was advised by many to withdraw from the fight, as they could move it to a later date. I decided I was well enough to continue and didn’t listen to anyone,” said Ankalaev.
The Russian also admitted the mistake and stressed that he had to deal with the consequences of the choice, highlighting that, despite the impact of the decision, the episode is now in the past.
"I made a mistake and, as we know, sometimes you have to pay for your mistakes. But that was a long time ago," the Russian concluded.
Ankalaev fought injured against Alex Poatan.
Ankalaev reveals trauma left by Poatan.
Back in action this Saturday (25), at UFC Abu Dhabi , Ankalaev revealed that the period away was marked by emotional difficulties. The fighter admitted that, although he wanted the rematch with Poatan, the defeat to the Brazilian left its mark.
“It’s been a long time. I wanted to come back, but I had traumas. It was difficult because the last fight (against Poatan) was a loss. But now I’m back, with a fresh mind, with a cool head. I think now everything will be different,” said Ankalaev, in an interview with 'Red Corner MMA'.
Relive Magomed Ankalaev's defeat to Alex Poatan at UFC 320.
Magomed Ankalaev may face Paulo Borrachinha in the UFC.
Scheduled to face Bogdan Guskov , who accepted to replace the injured Khalil Rountree at UFC Abu Dhabi , Magomed Ankalaev is already planning a quick return if he wins. The Russian revealed that, even after Paulo Borrachinha declined the fight at short notice due to lack of preparation, he remains interested in the duel.
Ankalaev indicated that, if he has his arm raised this Saturday (25), he could face the Brazilian at the end of October or in November. The possible confrontation gains even more relevance given the scenario of the division, since the light heavyweight champion, Carlos Ulberg , tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and has no return date to the octagon.
Therefore, the fight between Ankalaev and Borrachinha could be for the category's belt, depending on the UFC's decision regarding the interim title.
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