ABU DHABI – Magomed Ankalaev is assured what’s at stake for him Saturday at UFC 308.
At Etihad Area on Yas Island, Ankalaev (19-1-1 MMA, 10-1-1 UFC) takes on Aleksandar Rakic (14-4 MMA, 6-3 UFC) in a struggle he says will assure him a title shot with a victory.
“It’s as much as the UFC (what’s subsequent),” Ankalaev advised MMA Junkie and different reporters Wednesday. “I used to be just about advised that, with this win, I’m subsequent in line for the title. That’s what I hope goes to occur. But when, for some cause, I don’t get the title shot, and any individual else is put in entrance of me, then I’m going to should get there, and I’m going to should crush that individual with a view to get to the title shot.”
Ankalaev, 32, is a fighter many followers of the UFC thought ought to’ve been the latest problem for mild heavyweight titleholder Alex Pereira. Nonetheless, the promotion elected to guide Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree, whom he defeated by fourth-round knockout Oct. 5 at UFC 307.
With the narrative largely revolving round Pereira (12-2 MMA, 9-1 UFC), Ankalaev is sick of speaking concerning the champion.
“To be sincere, I don’t wish to maintain speaking about Pereira, however individuals maintain asking me questions on Pereira,” Ankalaev stated. “In the event that they ask me, then I’ve to reply. However actually I’m centered on my struggle. I’m anxious concerning the opponent in entrance of me. I’m on the market. I’m seeking to win, one thing like that.”
If the 2 ultimately face off, Ankalaev sees a transparent distinction in a single ability set class that may set him other than Pereira.
“It’s not like he’s that powerful, however the reality is he’s nicely rounded,” Ankalaev stated. “He does have hanging. He does have the bottom sport. Relating to the champion, he simply has the strikes and we all know these strikes. We haven’t seen him wrestle ever.”
Ankalaev indicated he’ll be searching for a end towards Rakic, however stated he doesn’t suppose his potential title shot will likely be contingent on whether or not the struggle goes 15 seconds or quarter-hour.
“It wasn’t a situation that it was a end and a title (shot),” Anakalev stated. “I used to be simply advised by Dana that it must be struggle. I’ve to point out myself nicely, after which I’ll get a title shot.”
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