For the first time since moving to Paramount, the UFC will take the violence to the Middle East, where Abu Dhabi hosts an intriguing clash at the top of the light heavyweight rankings.
Background
After losing his light heavyweight title to Alex Pereira back in October 2025, Magomed Ankalaev returns to the octagon, with his eyes firmly set on reclaiming the gold.
The 34-year-old Russian made his UFC debut in 2018 and has since recorded 12 wins, including six via knockout.
His standout victories have come against Johnny Walker, and of course Alex Pereira, when he claimed the light heavyweight title via decision.
As for his opponent, Bogdan Guskov has recorded three knockout victories in his five UFC bouts and arrives in Abu Dhabi in red hot form.
The ‘Hitman’ defeated Nikita Krylov in July 2025 before drawing with Jan Blachowicz in December 2025. These exciting fights earned him a call-up to fight Ankalaev on short notice after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew due to injury.
With Guskov at the peak of his career and Ankalaev a notoriously formidable force, Abu Dhabi is sure to witness a blockbuster encounter…
My name is Jack Latham.
I am 20 years old and am currently studying Sports Journalism at the University of Chester.
I became interested in combat sports, particularly MMA, in the lockdown period and have followed it closely ever since.
I have previously created my own website titled ‘Combat Corner,’ where I produce MMA content.
