Morning Report | Chris Weidman says Magomed Ankalaev not to blame for UFC Abu Dhabi fiasco: ‘I think it was Guskov’s fault’

Chris Weidman has stepped to the defense of Magomed Ankalaev following widespread criticism of his UFC Abu Dhabi main event against Bogdan Guskov on Saturday. The fight, which unfolded largely as a cautious affair with the two fighters circling the cage for much of the bout, finally produced a finish in the fifth round when Ankalaev secured a takedown and closed things out via TKO with ground and pound.

The performance drew considerable backlash from fans and fighters, particularly given Ankalaev's existing reputation for defensive, less-than-explosive fighting. However, Weidman argued on the Deep Waters podcast that criticism aimed at Ankalaev misses the mark. "I don't think this one was his fault. I think it was Guskov's fault," Weidman said, noting that Ankalaev dominated the fight across all areas and executed a solid wrestling display—his first extended wrestling showcase in some time. Weidman also pointed out that pacing himself in the opening rounds of a five-round bout is standard procedure, and that Ankalaev ultimately delivered a finish against a dangerous opponent.

Weidman acknowledged the bout lacked excitement but pushed back against what he saw as unfair treatment. "We're talking about this guy like it's a negative," he said, suggesting that fans hold Ankalaev to a higher standard precisely because they recognize his skill level. Ankalaev himself attributed the slow pace to Guskov's reluctance to engage and has since discussed a potential matchup with Paulo Costa.

Looking ahead, Weidman floated an alternative: a title-eliminator between Ankalaev and former champion Jiri Prochazka—a matchup that remains unmade despite both men's credentials. Such a fight, Weidman reasoned, would virtually guarantee the kind of action fans felt cheated of on Saturday.