Abu Dhabi: Magomed Ankalaev offers interim title fight to Paulo Costa after criticism
Following his victory at UFC Abu Dhabi, Magomed Ankalaev has responded to criticism from Paulo Costa by offering an interim title fight. Ankalaev’s recent win against Bogdan Guskov, which occurred on July 25, drew negative reactions from some observers, including Costa, who expressed dissatisfaction with the fight’s intensity.
Ankalaev, a former light heavyweight champion, secured a TKO victory over Guskov in the main event of UFC Abu Dhabi. This fight was arranged on short notice after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew due to injury less than 10 days before the event. Despite the win, the contest was described by some as a “snoozefest,” with the crowd in Abu Dhabi reportedly booing due to a perceived lack of action.
Costa’s Reaction and Ankalaev’s Challenge
Paulo Costa, who is ranked number 4 in the light heavyweight division, took to social media to voice his disapproval of the main event. He stated his intent to “save this weight class from monotony and boredom,” implying that the fight between Ankalaev and Guskov exemplified these issues. Costa also referred to himself as a “Russian killer” against “tedious fights.”
Costa’s comments came after his own recent success, having knocked out Azamat Murzakanov in April at UFC 327. He is currently on a two-fight winning streak, with his last win against Murzakanov coming via TKO.
In response to Costa’s remarks, Ankalaev issued a direct challenge via social media. He suggested that Costa often speaks critically but would be unwilling to face him in the octagon. Ankalaev wrote, “You talk a lot, but we both know you never want to fight me.” He then challenged Costa, saying, “If you’re a real man, accept the fight and let’s do it. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut. An interim title is fine with me too. No problem.”
While the origin of Ankalaev’s social media post is debated, with some fans suggesting his manager, Dominance MMA CEO Ali Abdelaziz, may have been behind it, the message clearly conveyed Ankalaev’s willingness to fight Costa.
Path to an Interim Title
Ankalaev’s victory over Guskov marked his return to winning ways after being knocked out by Alex Pereira in a title fight rematch nine months prior. This win is seen as a crucial step for Ankalaev as he aims to reclaim a championship. The potential matchup with Costa could be a significant determinant for the next contender in the light heavyweight division.
Discussions about creating an interim championship have been ongoing, particularly since Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327 despite sustaining a torn ACL. An interim title fight between Ankalaev and Costa could potentially determine who challenges Ulberg upon his return from injury.
The fight between Ankalaev and Guskov, despite its reception, saw Ankalaev dominate the scorecards before the TKO. One judge even scored a 10-8 round in his favor for his performance in Round 4, where he took Guskov down and delivered punches, attempting a rear-naked choke multiple times. The main event scorecard for UFC Abu Dhabi reflected Ankalaev’s control throughout the bout.
The challenge from Ankalaev to Costa sets the stage for a potential high-stakes encounter in the light heavyweight division, with an interim title possibly on the line.
Source: bloodyelbow.com
