Magomed Ankalaev, recognized for his dominant career in mixed martial arts, has endured only one professional defeat. Yet, he believes this particular loss stands as potentially the worst in the sport`s history.
This Saturday, Ankalaev is scheduled to make his first defense of the light heavyweight championship. He will face Alex Pereira in a highly anticipated rematch at the UFC 320 main event, hosted at the T-Mobile Arena.
Their initial encounter at UFC 313 earlier this year saw the Russian fighter secure a surprising victory. Much to the astonishment of many, Ankalaev notably out-struck Pereira across five rounds.
Throughout his time in the sport, the 33-year-old has maintained an almost impeccable record, with only a single stumble marring his otherwise flawless trajectory.
Ankalaev Reflects on His Unforgettable Debut Loss
Before his defeat by Ankalaev, ‘Poatan’ (Alex Pereira) was widely celebrated as a premier combat sports star, having consistently overcome all opponents. Despite having relinquished his title, Pereira has the opportunity to join Randy Couture as the only fighter in modern history to claim a three-time UFC championship across two different weight divisions.
Ankalaev, conversely, boasts a nearly unblemished 23-fight MMA record. His solitary loss occurred in his 2018 UFC debut.
Following a remarkable run on the regional circuit, ‘Big Ank’ made his UFC debut against Paul Craig. Despite dominating the Scottish fighter for nearly the entire bout, Ankalaev suffered a stunning submission defeat with a mere second remaining in the fight.
As he prepares for his inaugural title defense, Ankalaev candidly reflected on that singular loss, asserting it might be the worst in UFC history due to his own admission of `giving up` in the final moments.
In a recent interview with the UFC, Ankalaev revealed, “I used to be deeply concerned about losing and public opinion.”
He continued, “That concern no longer holds me. People can claim I suffered the worst loss in UFC history, conceding defeat in the absolute final seconds of a fight, leading to both praise and criticism.”
“However, my perspective has shifted,” he explained. “I now compete for myself, my family, and those who have faith in me, not for others. That loss profoundly changed my life. Initially, it was incredibly difficult; I withdrew from public life for a month.”
He concluded, “I even considered quitting fighting altogether. But during that month, I came to understand that the outcome wasn`t solely my fault. I gave my all, and ultimately, it was the will of the Almighty.”
Ankalaev Hints at Potential Career Shift Post-UFC 320
Following a successful performance this Saturday, the Russian fighter, as is increasingly common in the UFC, is reportedly contemplating a move to a different weight class.
Beyond Pereira, the only other prominent contender for the light heavyweight title appears to be Carlos Ulberg, fresh off an impressive victory at UFC Perth last Saturday.
However, before aspiring to become a double champion, Ankalaev must first successfully replicate his dominant performance against `Poatan` and potentially defend his title against Ulberg.
Neville Whittle