SUMMARY
- Recently, Anakalev headlined UFC Vegas 84, taking on Johnny Walker in a rematch of their UFC 294 bout.
- The conversation regarding his title shot continued on to the post-fight press conference as well.
UFC Vegas 84 has just concluded, and we have seen some major talking points emerge from it. Notably, with Magomed Ankalaev emerging victorious, he has been touted for the light heavyweight title shot next. As such, let’s take a look at what he and the champ’s coach had to say on the matter.
Recently, Anakalev headlined UFC Vegas 84, taking on Johnny Walker in a rematch of their UFC 294 bout. Having narrowly escaped a DQ at the time, the Russian made good on his second chance and left no doubt. As such, the light-heavyweight went on to brutally knock out Walker in Round 2 of their fight. Naturally, Magomed also seized the opportunity and called for a title shot against Alex Pereira next.
Further, the conversation regarding his title shot continued on to the post-fight press conference as well. Responding to a question regarding what Glover Teixeira thought of the performance, Ankalaev had a lot to say. “For Glover Teixeira, I have a message: Don’t waste your time trying to teach your student how to wrestle or grapple. He’s not going to need it”.
Further, Ankalaev went on to say, “I’m going to come out there I’m going to stand across from him and I know that he’s been knocked out before as a middleweight so imagine what’s going to happen if I meet him in light heavyweight. Trust me he’s not going to feel comfortable there.” Notably, the Dagestani fighter now has one of the longest unbeaten streaks, with 12 wins in a row. Additionally, he is also tied for fourth in UFC light heavyweight history with six knockouts.
What did Glover Teixeira have to say about Magomed Ankalaev after UFC Vegas 84?
As such, considering the state of the division, Magomed Ankalaev is evidently the clear number-one contender. Previously, many assumed that the newly-crowned Alex Pereira would fight Jamahal Hill next, who had vacated the title before him. However, with no word on Hill’s recovery, it would seem that Ankalev is the most obvious pick.
Moreover, with a lot of talk regarding the main event of UFC 300, it further helps the UFC with their choices. Prior to the event, there were rumors of Alex Pereira potentially challenging Tom Aspinall for the Interim Heavyweight title as well. Whilst it was a fight that many would have been excited to see, there were no real implications behind such a fight.
Thank you Champ you don’t have to wait too long. I’m ready for your guy.
— Magomed Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) January 14, 2024
Now, with Ankalaev making a strong case for himself, it is more than likely that the UFC will seriously consider the fight. Following the KO win over Walker, Alex Pereira’s coach and former light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira commended the Russian.
Taking to social media, he wrote, “Great knockout. We will see u soon,” to which Ankalaev responded, “Thank you Champ you don’t have to wait too long. I’m ready for your guy.” Thus, the matchup is a very possible one for UFC 300.
All things considered, there is only one hindrance to the entire situation, and that is regarding Ramadan. Observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, it may prove to be a difficult time to train for Ankalaev. Should he be willing to persevere through it, there is no doubt that he could be fighting for the title at the UFC’s third centennial PPV event. Who do you think should be fighting Pereira for the title next, Ankalaev or Hill? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.