Ankalaev on Guskov: He will realize that facing me was a mistake

Magomed Ankalaev On July 25, he will step into the octagon against Bogdan Guskov in Abu Dhabi. The Russian fighter stated he is not upset about the opponent change, but acknowledged that this opportunity could change the entire career of the Uzbekistan-based athlete.

Ankalaev highlighted that Guskov was the only fighter to accept the offer on short notice. Nevertheless, he openly stated that taking his spot in the rankings will not be easy for his opponent.

Rountree injured, opportunity given to Guskov

Initially, Magomed Ankalaev was scheduled to fight Khalil Rountree at UFC Fight Night 282.

However, Rountree withdrew from the bout due to an injury. With little time left before the event, the UFC was forced to find a new opponent for Ankalaev.

The offer was accepted by Uzbekistan representative Bogdan Guskov. Thus, the important light heavyweight clash was saved from cancellation.

“Guskov accepted without hesitation”

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Ankalaev acknowledged Guskov's courage.

“Guskov was the only fighter who accepted the offer without hesitation. I understand the others as well. This is professional sports, and there is a lot at stake.”

He believes that fighting a top-ranked contender without a full training camp is a huge risk for any athlete.

Such a fight accepted on short notice can drastically change not only the chances of victory but also the fighter's ranking and future career.

Ankalaev is not upset about the opponent change

The Russian fighter did not hide that he had prepared specifically for Rountree. However, he reacted positively to the fight proceeding even after a new opponent appeared.

“Of course, I was upset that Khalil couldn't make it to the fight. I had prepared specifically for him. But I wasn't upset at all that a new opponent was found at the last minute.”

For Ankalaev, the most important thing is returning to the octagon after a long break and getting some fight time.

He even called the clash with Guskov a kind of “warm-up fight.” However, he acknowledged in his subsequent remarks that this description is not meant to underestimate the Uzbek athlete's potential.

“This could change his life”

Ankalaev says that for Bogdan Guskov, who is ranked ninth, this fight is a huge opportunity.

“This opportunity could fundamentally change his career. He will put all his effort into taking my spot in the rankings.”

If Guskov defeats a high-ranked opponent, his status in the light heavyweight division could change dramatically. Such a victory would bring him closer to the title race and open doors to fighting the biggest names in the UFC.

That is why the Uzbek fighter is entering one of the most important bouts of his career despite the short preparation time.

“It won't be easy to accomplish”

Ankalaev understands well that Guskov will be highly motivated. However, he confidently stated that he will not allow his opponent to realize his big plans.

“Of course, he will do everything he can to take advantage of his opportunity. But it won't be easy for him to do that.”

Thus, the psychological battle before the fight has also begun. Ankalaev relies on his experience and ranking position, while Guskov enters the octagon as a challenger with nothing to lose but everything to gain.

Everything can change in the Abu Dhabi fight

Bogdan Guskov accepted the offer on short notice and grabbed the biggest opportunity of his career. Now he must prove himself on the big stage in a five-round fight against one of the top-ranked contenders.

While this is a return fight for Ankalaev, for Guskov, it is a chance to shift the entire balance of power in the division.

Do you think Bogdan Guskov can cause an upset and defeat Ankalaev? Leave your thoughts in the comments and send this to UFC fans waiting for the fight.