Magomed Ankalaev is back in action this weekend, but fans expecting fiery exchanges during UFC Abu Dhabi fight week may be left waiting. The former UFC light heavyweight champion meets Bogdan Guskov in Saturday’s main event. While Ankalaev has built a reputation online for trading barbs with rivals, he says that version of himself is very different from the way he carries himself in person.
Ankalaev Prefers to Let His Fighting Do the Talking
During UFC Abu Dhabi media day, Ankalaev explained why he rarely shows emotion outside the cage.
“How are people going to know what I am or what I have inside?”
“I’m a professional fighter, I like to keep my emotions inside.”
“But if somebody crosses that line or kind of toes the line, then I’m sure I can show my character as well.”
Alex Pereira Still on His Mind
Although his immediate focus is Guskov, Ankalaev has not completely moved on from his rivalry with Alex Pereira. After recently saying he would follow Pereira to heavyweight for a trilogy fight, Ankalaev responded to Pereira’s remark questioning whether he was “still alive.”
“Alex Pereira must have been sleeping for a long time because I believe he was put to sleep pretty hard.”
“If you can pass him a message, tell him I’m alive and well, and I’m waiting to see what he can show.”
Defeat Has Fueled His Motivation
Ankalaev admitted the loss to Pereira has become a source of motivation as he prepares for his return.
“A defeat affects different fighters different ways.”
“I think a defeat for me was beneficial because it got me more motivated, it got me training harder, it gave me a reason to come back and to show that I belong here.”
Saturday’s fight against Guskov marks Ankalaev’s first appearance since his defeat to Pereira, which ended his 14-fight unbeaten streak.
“I think it’s going to be a good fight, and I’m excited to show what I worked on.”
Find our full predictions for the fight here.