After UFC 320, Magomed Ankalaev faces a pivotal decision. Few UFC champions find themselves at such a critical juncture immediately after losing their title.
The Dagestani fighter displayed a bold confidence, engaging in significant trash talk before his rematch with Alex Pereira. This approach seemed risky, especially considering their first bout wasn`t a dominant win for Ankalaev and there were reports of Pereira`s less-than-ideal preparation. Ultimately, the reigning champion was left embarrassed when Pereira swiftly defeated him at UFC 320 in a mere 80 seconds.
In Las Vegas, one fighter achieved revenge and now aims for Jon Jones, eyeing a historic move to heavyweight. The other, however, appears destined to return to his long-standing pattern: winning bouts and expressing frustration over the UFC`s perceived disregard for his title aspirations. Unless…
The Seemingly Absurd PFL Trade Idea for Magomed Ankalaev Might Not Be So Crazy
Din Thomas, a respected analyst whose insights enhance UFC broadcasts, is known for his intriguing perspectives. One such idea was his suggestion for the UFC to trade Ankalaev to the PFL for Dakota Ditcheva. Initially made before Ankalaev won his title in March and reiterated before UFC 320, proposing to trade a reigning champion with a 14-fight unbeaten streak seemed absurd. Now, however, the concept doesn`t appear quite so outlandish.
While the specific trade involving Ditcheva remains improbable—she`s a rising star, arguably a top-five female MMA fighter, and recently signed a new PFL deal, making a future UFC move more likely after fulfilling her contract—the idea of Ankalaev moving to the PFL independently warrants consideration.
On merit, Ankalaev`s title shot against Pereira was long overdue, and he undeniably remains one of the premier light heavyweights. By all logical standards, he should be just one significant win away from another title opportunity. However, the UFC`s decisions often diverge from a pure merit-based system.
Ankalaev`s future in the UFC seems predictable. He will likely defeat another notable contender, such as Khalil Rountree Jr., or the victor of Aleksandar Rakic`s fight against Azamat Murzakanov. Beyond that, it`s improbable the UFC would grant him another shot at Pereira, assuming Pereira retains the title. It`s even conceivable the promotion might actively steer Ankalaev away from the championship picture entirely. Therefore, Ankalaev should proactively seek to avoid a short-lived UFC reign, comparable to those of Sean Strickland or Julianna Pena in duration, and which concluded with a humiliating defeat akin to Jose Aldo`s 13-second loss to Conor McGregor or Pena`s dominant defeat by Amanda Nunes.
Public Interest in Magomed Ankalaev Contending for UFC Gold is Low
Many informed fans might still consider it absurd to suggest a recent, prime champion should leave the UFC. However, for those who believe Ankalaev will contend for a title again soon, here are some common online reactions from the MMA community:
- “No one wants a trilogy fight.”
- “While I like Ankalaev, getting a title shot after a quick first-round defeat is unreasonable.”
- “Frankly, Ankalaev`s loss feels satisfying, and he won`t be sniffing a title shot again, especially after that performance.”
- “As an Ankalaev fan, I admit he showed fear, which is embarrassing. That attitude won`t earn him a title shot.”
- “Why should Ankalaev get a trilogy when he never defended his belt? He also fumbled a previous chance against Jan Blachowicz. The UFC only gave him another shot out of necessity… He won`t get another one for a long time.”
- “Ankalaev will never fight for a title again. The UFC doesn`t want him as champion.”
- “The UFC will never let Ankalaev near a title shot again.”
- “Can we all just pretend Ankalaev`s title reign never happened?”
While this represents a small selection, history suggests these sentiments are widely held within the fanbase. Regardless of personal agreement, it`s evident that public enthusiasm for Ankalaev competing in UFC title fights is lacking. Furthermore, we know that Dana White, the matchmakers, and the UFC rarely pursue matchups with low interest, unless it involves a favored fighter—a point underscored by the controversial Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic booking, which sidelined interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
The Evolving PFL Offers a Promising Opportunity for Magomed Ankalaev
The PFL has historically attracted fighters, such as Shane Burgos who left the UFC, primarily with its lucrative financial incentives, particularly the chance to win $1 million in its unique seasonal tournaments. However, after years of this experimental format, the PFL is now transitioning to a traditional structure with conventional divisional titles. The first light heavyweight belt was recently awarded to former UFC contender Corey Anderson, who defeated Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov on a card featuring Usman Nurmagomedov`s rematch with Paul Hughes.
A title bout between Ankalaev and Anderson would generate more anticipation, offer greater financial rewards, and likely take place before an enthusiastic audience in the Middle East, unlike the predictable contender matchups awaiting Ankalaev in the UFC. While the PFL`s 205-pound division may not be deep, its annual World Tournament promises a new challenger each year, and the roster includes other notable veterans from UFC and Bellator, ensuring a sufficient pool of opponents for Ankalaev. A long title reign would also be a strong possibility.
While some might dismiss PFL achievements due to the promotion`s name, fighters like Patchy Mix and Patricio Pitbull have earned immense respect for their success outside the UFC. UFC 320 has not diminished Ankalaev`s perceived skill; he remains, technically, among the division`s elite. However, to truly capitalize on his talent, a departure from the UFC might be his best option.
