Magomed Ankalaev claims “best striker” status in UFC’s 205-pound division, offers to prove his mettle by going up in weight and fighting Jon Jones.
In recent months, ex-UFC fighter and MMA analyst Chael Sonnen has praised the Dagestan native’s fighting skills and implied that he would be a difficult challenge for light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.
While Pereira’s career achievements have convinced many that he is one of the greatest strikers, Ankalaev feels otherwise. Seemingly responding to one of Sonnen’s recent statements, Ankalaev took to X and claimed to be the best striker in the light heavyweight division:
“@ChaelSonnen you are right I am the best striker in the light heavy with division. If Jon Jones opponent got injured. I will fight him also and I will beat him.”
Ankalaev has been on an impressive run since losing his UFC debut against Paul Craig. He went on a 12-fight unbeaten run (10-0-1-1NC) over the last few years to insert his name in the title picture.
Magomed Ankalaev responds to Alex Pereira’s comments on his fighting style
A large section of the MMA community was surprised at the UFC’s decision to give No.8-ranked Khalil Rountree Jr. a shot at the light heavyweight title. Speaking to members of MMA media heading into his UFC 307 title fight against Rountree Jr., ‘Poatan’ claimed that the UFC’s decision might have been influenced by the perceived lack of entertainment value in Ankalaev’s fighting style.
Ankalaev reacted to Pereira’s statement in a post on X and wrote:
“Alex has 6 KOs in UFC I have 6 KOs. He knows why he’s not fighting me and Fighting the number eight guy. Let’s be real. Focus on your fight. I will do the same. We will see after if you will accept good luck, champ.”
Many fans seemingly believe Pereira might be avoiding Ankalaev due to the Dagestani fighter’s strong wrestling credentials. However, Ankalaev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz recently clarified this was not the case. According to him, the UFC has agreed to give a title shot to Ankalaev if he beats his next opponent, Aleksandar Rakic, at UFC 308.