UFC Lightweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev Fights On After Ignoring Team’s Advice

Magomed Ankalaev, the UFC lightweight champion, faced a painful lesson after he ignored his team's advice to pull out of a title defense against Alex Pereira. The Russian fighter fought with a broken rib and now faces Bogdan Guskov in Abu Dhabi.

A week before UFC 320, members of Ankalaev’s team advised him to drop out due to the seriousness of his injury. ‘I was told to pull out of the fight, but I felt alright,’ said Magomed Ankalaev through a Russian interpreter. 'You have to pay for your mistakes. That's what I did.' The 27-year-old's decision will now put him up against Bogdan Guskov on Saturday at UFC Fight Night.

According to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines

Bogdan Guskov vs Magomed Ankalaev: Ankalaev Returns Nine Months After Title Loss

Nine months after defeating Alex Pereira in a unanimous decision, capturing the lightweight belt, Ankalaev defends against Bogdan Guskov at UFC Fight Night. The fight is Ankalaev's first since his controversial loss to Pereira, when he fought with an undisclosed injury.

Rib Injury and Title Defense

Leo Guimaraes reported that Ankalaev took part in the bout despite suffering a broken rib, as shown by video evidence. Guskov is seen examining Ankalaev before the fight. This will likely be a tougher challenge for the Russian fighter compared to Alex Pereira.

Fickle Sports Business: Ankalaev's Struggles Post-Loss

Ankalaev's fate, he says, is determined by the 'sports game.' ‘When you win fights, everyone talks about you. You're the best in the world. The second you lose, no one talks about you,' said the Russian fighter.

Rematch with Pereira

Ankalaev returns to fight Alex Pereira after his loss at UFC 320. 'That's for him to decide,' Ankalaev admits, saying he hopes Pereira will come back to light heavyweight so they can have another go at it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question?

Magomed Ankalaev fought with a broken rib in the UFC 320 title fight against Alex Pereira. Although advised by his team, he decided to push on despite the injury, costing him the championship.

Will Magomed Ankalaev pull out of the Bogdan Guskov rematch?

No, Ankalaev is set to face Guskov at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. He plans to take his fight regardless and believes he still has a bright future ahead.