UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs Guskov Preview 

UFC returns to Abu Dhabi this weekend for another exciting Fight Night event, with Magomed Ankalaev vs Bogdan Guskov taking centre stage in the main event. The light heavyweight division has become one of the most competitive in the UFC, making this contest an important step for both fighters. 

Ankalaev is aiming to work his way back into title contention after losing the championship, while Guskov has quickly built momentum and now has the chance to score the biggest win of his career. With plenty at stake, you can expect a high-level battle inside the Octagon. 

If you enjoy UFC betting, this main event offers plenty of value so place your bet with Bet.co.za today.  

Fight preview 

Magomed Ankalaev 

Magomed Ankalaev enters this fight with plenty to prove. The former UFC light heavyweight champion enjoyed one of the longest unbeaten runs in the division before suffering defeat to Alex Pereira last year.  

Before that loss, Ankalaev had gone 14 fights without being beaten after dropping his UFC debut, showing just how consistent he had become against elite competition. Known for his calm approach, excellent striking and strong wrestling, he has developed into one of the most complete fighters in the division. He has shown he can control fights over five rounds. 

Returning to Abu Dhabi also gives him familiar surroundings. This will be his fifth appearance in the city, where he has produced several impressive performances during his UFC career. A convincing victory would immediately put him back in the conversation for another title opportunity. 

Bogdan Guskov 

Bogdan Guskov has quietly become one of the division’s most dangerous contenders. After losing his UFC debut on short notice, the Uzbekistan fighter responded in impressive fashion by putting together an unbeaten run that has caught plenty of attention. Four of those victories came by stoppage, highlighting his power and aggressive fighting style. 

His most recent outing against former champion Jan Blachowicz ended in a draw, but it also showed that Guskov belongs among the division’s best. He dominated large parts of the second round, doing enough damage to earn 10-8 scores from two judges.  

Although Blachowicz fought back late in the contest to level the fight, Guskov left the Octagon with his reputation stronger than ever. Now he gets the biggest test of his career against one of the UFC’s top light heavyweights. 

Fight Breakdown 

This matchup brings together two fighters with very different styles. Ankalaev is known for his patience, technical striking, and excellent fight IQ. He likes to control the pace, stay defensively responsible and take advantage of any mistakes his opponent makes. 

Guskov brings pressure from the opening bell. His power has helped him finish several opponents, and he is always searching for opportunities to end the fight early. 

One of the biggest questions will be how Guskov handles Ankalaev’s experience across five-round main events. Ankalaev has already competed against many of the division’s biggest names, while Guskov is stepping into the spotlight against the highest-ranked opponent of his career. 

If Ankalaev slows the fight down and sticks to his disciplined game plan, his experience could become the deciding factor. If Guskov lands clean early, he has the power to change the fight in an instant. 

Ankalaev vs Guskov Prediction 

Magomed Ankalaev enters the contest as the more experienced fighter and has already proven himself against elite competition. His balanced skill set, championship experience and ability to adapt during fights make him a difficult challenge for almost anyone in the division. 

Guskov certainly has the confidence and knockout power to cause problems, but defeating a former champion is a completely different challenge. 

Expect Guskov to have moments early, but Ankalaev’s composure, striking accuracy and overall experience should allow him to take control as the fight progresses. 

Prediction: Ankalaev to win by unanimous decision. 

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