Bogdan Guskov calls Magomed Ankalaev best light heavyweight

Bogdan Guskov believes Magomed Ankalaev remains the best heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight in the UFC despite no longer holding the title.

The Uzbek contender steps in on two weeks' notice to face Ankalaev in the main event at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 25 at Etihad Arena after Khalil Rountree withdrew with an injury, Sherdog reports. Guskov told MMA Junkie that Ankalaev's loss to Alex Pereira in their rematch was an aberration, not a reflection of the Russian's true standing in the division.

Guskov targets title shot with Ankalaev win

"For me, Magomed is the strongest guy in our division," Guskov said, per MMA Junkie. "Second fight with Pereira is just one fight, bad day in the office. And Magomed is still a dangerous and stronger guy in our division." Ankalaev had won 14 straight before the Pereira setback, while Guskov finished four consecutive opponents before drawing with Jan Blachowicz in his last outing. All 18 of Guskov's career wins have come by stoppage.

Guskov argued that beating a fighter of Ankalaev's caliber should put him in line for championship gold. Carlos Ulberg currently holds the belt after suffering an injury in his title win earlier this year. UFC CEO Dana White has indicated the promotion will likely create an interim title while Ulberg recovers, according to Sherdog.

The 33-year-old Guskov enters the bout at 18-3, while Ankalaev stands at 20-2. First bell rings Saturday night on Yas Island.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Why Bogdan Guskov still thinks Magomed Ankalaev is UFC’s best at 205