Ankalaev wins comeback, Weidman defends him, eyes Costa bout
UFC Hall of Famer Chris Weidman defended Magomed Ankalaev’s showing after the July 25 main-event in Abu Dhabi, saying the bout’s slow pace was caused by opponent Bogdan Guskov, and Ankalaev later said he is ready to face Paulo Costa at UFC 333 in October, according to MMA Fighting. Ankalaev made his UFC comeback on 25 July at UFC Fight Night 282 in Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena, stepping in against short-notice replacement Bogdan Guskov. He stopped Guskov by technical knockout in the fifth round, a result that positions him for a possible title shot, ESPN reported.
The fight had been announced earlier in July, with MMA Fighting noting Ankalaev called his loss to Alex Pereira the worst day of his life and Guskov describing the bout as a career-changing opportunity. MMA Junkie said the event opened the Fight Night card.
