“The next champ”- Khamzat Chimaev hails Magomed Ankalaev following his UFC Vegas 50 triumph
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Khamzat Chimaev and Magomed Ankalaev
Magomed Ankalaev stepped inside the octagon to face Thiago Santos at UFC Vegas 50 andwas able to clinch the victory against the former light heavyweight contender. Ankalaev, now ranked 6th in the light heavyweight division, extended his win streak to 8 with his victory over Santos.
The fight saw Ankalaev being dropped by Santos in the second round by a heavy left but Ankalaev recovered throughout the fight and was able to avoid most of Santos’s haymakers. Ankalaev used his grappling in the later rounds to wear on the tiring Santos and came out with the judges decision.
Following the fight in press conference, Ankalaev said, “I wanted to fight all five rounds to test myself and see if I’m ready to go all the way to the top…I was expecting him to be more aggressive and grapple more, but he didn’t. He was very careful. Of course it depends on UFC and what happens in the next title fight… I feel like I deserve a title fight.“
This response affirms that Magomed intends to cash in his win for a chance a the title, in his next possible fight.
Khamzat Chimaev amongst people praising Magomed Ankalaev
After the performance put on by the Russian standout, he received praise from fellow Russian Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev went on Instagram to congratulate Ankalaev and declared that he would be the next champion. Ever since Jon Jones decided to end his reign at light heavyweight and move up to heavyweight, the light heavyweight division has been up for grabs.
Ankalaev, who has only lost his first fight with the UFC has put together an undefeated run which definitely puts him in title contention. His win over Santos, a former title contender, shows that he truly is championship.
Also Read: UFC Vegas 50 payouts: Which fighters won bonuses on the Thiago Santos vs Magomed Ankalaev card?
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Angelin Dsouza
(235 Articles Published)