Magomed Ankalaev will headline his first UFC card on Saturday night when he takes on Thiago Santos in a battle of light heavyweight contenders in the main event of UFC Fight Night 203.
While Santos (22-9) is a seasoned veteran when it comes to topping UFC cards, the 29-year-old Ankalaev (16-1) is relishing his chance to jump into the spotlight.
Ankalaev quickly closing in on title shot
Ankalaev is riding a seven-fight winning streak into Saturday’s bout, and hasn’t lost since Paul Craig submitted him in his UFC debut back in 2018. He comes into the fight as a -600 favorite over Santos (+435) at DraftKings Sportsbook.
“It feels like an accomplishment,†Ankalaev told reporters. “I’m glad the UFC bosses gave me a chance to headline an event.â€
It’s more than just the stage that matters for Ankalaev, however. His winning streak has pushed him to the No. 6 ranking in the light heavyweight division. Ankalaev sees himself on the verge of being in the title picture, something his entire career has been building toward.
“I did expect that I wouldn’t get a title shot after my last victory because I fought No. 7 and everyone who was in front of me were on winning streaks,†Ankalaev told UFC.com. “If I could impress them with my performance, I believe I could get a title shot next, but it’s completely up to the UFC.â€
Santos has already been close to the mountaintop. In July 2019, he lost a split decision to the legendary Jon Jones in a battle for the light heavyweight title. Santos would then go on to lose two more fights in a row – to Glover Teixeira and Aleksandar Rakic – before bouncing back with a win over Johnny Walker last October.
Veteran experience gives Santos hope
Now, the 38-year-old Santos regards Ankalaev as a stepping stone towards another title shot.
“He’s a good fighter. He has my respect,†Santos told reporters. “But I’m here. I’m here to prove I can beat anyone in this division and become champion.â€
While Santos rates as a heavy underdog, he says he has one clear advantage over Ankalaev on Saturday night.
“I think I have an advantage when it comes to experience,†Santos told Combate. “Not only in cage time, but the opponent I’ve faced, too. I’m used to fighting five rounds and main events. I don’t think he has ever fought for five rounds. I’ll use all of my experience in my favor.â€
However, Santos’ recent performances don’t provide a clear picture of how he might overcome the rising Ankalaev. Even if Ankalaev can’t find a way to finish the fight early – and there’s every chance that both fighters could be patient, at least at the start – he’ll likely dominate Santos with his wrestling as the fight goes on.
It seems as though Ankalaev knows this is a fight he should win.
“Thiago is a great, tough opponent,†Ankalaev said. “But this is just another step towards the best for me, with all due respect.â€