Published 79 days ago
Magomed Ankalaev secures a technical KO in the 5th round and bounces back after his defeat to Alex Pereira
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Magomed Ankalaev made a strong return to the Octagon by dominating Bogdan Guskov via technical KO in the 5th round at UFC Abu Dhabi. A victory that partially erases the crushing defeat inflicted by Alex Pereira in October 2025. Analysis of a fight that divided the Etihad Arena crowd.
To remember:
- Magomed Ankalaev wins by technical KO in the 5th round against Bogdan Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi.
- Ankalaev returns to winning ways after his loss to Alex Pereira in October 2025.
- The fight left part of the Etihad Arena crowd unsatisfied, despite Ankalaev's dominance.
On November 15, 2025, UFC Abu Dhabi delivered a mixed spectacle to its audience. In the light heavyweight division, Magomed Ankalaev proved he remains a serious contender by dominating Bogdan Guskov via technical KO in the 5th round. A result that marks a turning point after the heavy loss he suffered against Alex Pereira in October 2025, where he was knocked out in under two rounds.
From the opening seconds, Ankalaev set the pace, looking to finish early. However, Guskov, known for his resilience, held on until the 5th round. It was in the final minutes that the Russian found the opening: a body shot combination followed by a left hook finished his opponent, forcing the referee to stop the fight. A victory that, while technical, did not fully convince the crowd at the Etihad Arena, accustomed to more spectacular clashes.
A Necessary Return for Ankalaev
This win was crucial for Magomed Ankalaev. After his defeat to Alex Pereira, doubts lingered about his ability to bounce back. This technical KO over Guskov, a less high-profile opponent than his previous rival, allows him to maintain his place among the division's elite. Observers are now asking: can Ankalaev target a title shot after this performance?
As for Guskov, this loss confirms the Russian fighter's limitations against the world's best. Despite his iron will, he failed to impose his game, succumbing to Ankalaev's power and experience. Another lesson for a grappler seeking recognition.
With this victory, Magomed Ankalaev revives his career and proves he remains a threat in the light heavyweight division. As for the UFC Abu Dhabi crowd, they left with mixed feelings: between the satisfaction of seeing a champion rise again and the frustration of a fight that was less explosive than expected.