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…
Fighting Style
Contrasting fighting styles makes for an exciting matchup in Abu Dhabi, with Ankalaev operating very patiently compared to Guskov’s high-octane approach.
Ankalaev uses his southpaw stance to create a technical striking base, with his shot selection a key component of his style. The Russian often causes his opponents to miss their shots and overexert, allowing him to land effective counter strikes.
He also has a background in Greco-Roman wrestling, which helps him to deny takedowns and remain calm when fights go to the canvas.
On the other hand, Guskov likes to apply constant pressure to his opponents with his boxing skillset, mixing in direct jabs with powerful overhands.
The ‘Hitman’ showcased his power against Nikita Krylov as a straight right sent his opponent to the mat before some impressive ground and pound finished the fight.
Guskov will look to close the angles down for Ankalaev at any given opportunity and will do his upmost to remain on the front foot for the opening rounds.
I believe this fight will remain on the feet, with Ankalaev setting traps for Guskov to fall into.
Future
Ankalaev is currently number two in the light heavyweight rankings coming into the fight, while Guskov is hoping to jump from his number nine rank into title contention.
Carlos Ulberg is currently the light heavyweight champion after defeating Jiri Prochazka for the vacant belt. But a torn ACL in his right knee could see the Australian sidelined for some time, offering an opportunity for other contenders to vie for the title.
A relatively competitive division also sees the likes of Paulo Costa and Jamahal Hill on the scene, not to mention Robert Whittaker, who has recently moved up to light heavyweight with a bang, breaking the jaw of Nikita Krylov.
Once you throw Khalil Rountree Jr. into the mix, you have a competitive division, with a host of names seeing themselves worthy enough of having the gold strapped around their waist.
For Ankalaev and Guskov this presents an opportunity to put their name up in lights, and it is one they will be determined not to miss out on…
Prediction
Stepping into a fight on less than two weeks’ notice is not easy for any fighter, and I believe this will ultimately turn the tide of the fight in Ankalaev’s favour.
Guskov will most likely start very aggressively and try to score an early finish, much like Pereira did to Ankalaev in their second fight. However, I think the Russian will have learned his lesson this time around and will stop himself being pushed back towards the cage.
In my opinion, Ankalaev will remain patient and select his shots precisely, frustrating Guskov with his defensive movement and footwork.
As the fight moves towards the latter rounds, I think Ankalaev will find more joy in his striking and will begin to hurt Guskov on the feet, earning him vital points on the judge’s scorecard.
Although Guskov can finish a fight at any given moment, Ankalaev will be too resolute for him, and I can see a comfortable unanimous decision victory on the horizon for the former champion.
Magomed Ankalaev will face Bogdan Guskov at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on July 25.
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.