Sukhrab Magomedov, coach of UFC fighter Magomed Ankalaev, shared insights in an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net regarding the recent announcement that UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will face Khalil Rountree instead of Ankalaev.
We are used to this kind of treatment from the UFC. After the fight with Ion Cutelaba, we were promised a title shot. Perhaps the organization has its own view on this situation. Magomed is used to it, but of course, it upsets him, and he doesn’t like it. How can Alex Pereira, who has stated he doesn't want to fight, suddenly get a bout with Khalil Rountree, who is ranked eighth? It's hard to understand. Pereira could have easily accepted a fight against Ankalaev and competed in October. We could have fought then. Ankalaev has already started training for his fight against Aleksandar Rakic.
Sukhrab Magomedov exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
Ankalaev has a record of 18 wins, one loss, and one draw. His fight against Johnny Walker at UFC 294 was deemed a no-contest. On October 26, at UFC 308, Ankalaev is scheduled to face Aleksandar Rakic, who holds a record of 14 wins and four losses.