Magomed Ankalaev has expressed interest in a potential fight against Paulo Costa in Abu Dhabi this October. Ankalaev recently secured a victory at UFC Abu Dhabi, defeating Bogdan Guskov via TKO on July 25. This win followed his previous title fight rematch against Alex Pereira, where he was knocked out.
Ankalaev, who is considered the No. 1 contender in his division, noted the current champion, Carlos Ulberg, is recovering from knee surgery. He stated that if Ulberg’s return is delayed, he would prefer to remain active. Ankalaev mentioned seeing or hearing Costa’s comments directed at him, suggesting a possible matchup.
Ankalaev’s Challenge to Costa
During a post-fight press conference, Ankalaev, speaking through a translator, addressed Costa’s remarks. He questioned whether Costa was trying to provoke him or gain his attention. Ankalaev proposed a fight with Costa if the champion’s absence continues, adding that he hopes Costa would not avoid engaging in a direct confrontation.
Costa had previously voiced his frustration regarding the booking of the final fight on his current UFC contract. He suggested that the organization might be preventing him from completing his deal to test the free agent market. Costa, known as “Borrachinha,” has been linked with other organizations that might be willing to offer significant contracts.
Following Ankalaev’s win, Costa took to social media, specifically X (formerly Twitter), to comment on the state of the light heavyweight division. He declared, “By the power of the Almighty, I shall save this weight class from monotony and boredom.”
Ankalaev responded to Costa’s social media post, stating, “You talk a lot, but we both know you never want to fight me.” He 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 authenticity of Ankalaev’s direct post was questioned by some fans, the exchange set the stage for a potential bout.
Potential October Bout
Ankalaev suggested that if Costa is willing and the UFC approves, he would be happy to fight in Abu Dhabi in October. He expressed a desire to deliver exciting fights for fans, noting that opponents often adopt a defensive strategy against him. Ankalaev emphasized that if Costa is prepared to “stand and bang,” they could have an engaging fight in Abu Dhabi.
The discussion around an interim championship has been ongoing since Ulberg sustained a torn ACL during his victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327. Costa’s recent knockout victory against Azamat Murzakanov in April has also positioned him within the top five of the 205-pound division, further fueling speculation about his next opponent.
Ankalaev’s recent fight against Guskov was arranged on short notice after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew due to injury less than 10 days before the event. The fight, which closed out the card at the Etihad Arena, drew criticism for its defensive nature.
The potential matchup between Ankalaev and Costa could determine who challenges Ulberg upon his return from injury, with Ankalaev aiming for a fight in Abu Dhabi in October.
Source: sports.yahoo.com