Magomed Ankalaev, the No. 2 ranked light heavyweight in the UFC, is not too pleased with Anthony Smith right now. It all started when Smith, a former opponent and current analyst, shared his thoughts. He suggested Ankalaev might not be next in line for a title shot. ‘Lionheart’ pointed to Ankalaev’s sometimes “unexciting” style as a potential roadblock.
Now, fans know that fighters usually don’t take criticism kindly, especially from fellow fighters, and Ankalaev certainly didn’t. The Dagestani fighter took to social media platform X, calling Smith his “easiest fight ever.” He didn’t stop there, though. Ankalaev reminded Smith of their previous encounter at UFC 277.
“@ChaelSonnen you are right my friend, my toughest fight in the division is Rakic, my easiest fight ever was Anthony Smith, I hit him with a combination from a video game I used to play when I was 12.”
Magomed Ankalaev is set to face Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 308 later this month. Many see it as a potential title eliminator. Smith, however, thinks others might leapfrog Ankalaev in the title race. According to Ankalaev, he reaffirmed that Rakic was the hardest matchup for him at light heavyweight.
This back-and-forth highlighted the complex dynamics in MMA. Fighters often become analysts, critiquing their peers. But when those peers bite back, things can get spicy real quick. Ankalaev’s reaction also shows the importance fighters place on their image. ‘Lionheart‘ suggested Ankalaev’s style might bore fans. That is a serious accusation for a fighter at such a high level.
Magomed Ankalaev Ready To Step In The Heavyweight Mix If Jon Jones Or Stipe Miocic Get Injured
The Dagestani powerhouse has been tearing up the light heavyweight division. He’s not just content with dominating his weight class. Now, he’s eyeing the heavyweight throne. Ankalaev recently took to social media with a bold proclamation. He’s ready to step up if either Jon Jones or Stipe Miocic gets injured before UFC 309.
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But Magomed Ankalaev isn’t just offering to fill in. He is confident he can beat Jon Jones and outstrike the one who is widely considered the GOAT of MMA. That’s not just confidence; that’s the kind of audacity that makes fight fans sit up and take notice.
“@ChaelSonnen you are right I am the best striker in the light heavy with division. If Jon Jones opponent got injured. I will fight him also and I will beat him.”
Ankalaev’s journey in the UFC has been nothing short of impressive. After stumbling in his debut against Paul Craig, he’s been on a tear. He’s racked up a 12-fight unbeaten streak, leaving a trail of defeated opponents in his wake. If he manages to win against Aleksandar Rakic, he may very well be next for a shot at Alex Pereira’s throne.
Also Read: Dana White Confirms Magomed Ankalaev As The Next Title Challenger For Alex Pereira
