Bogdan Guskov replaces injured Khalil Rountree in UFC Abu Dhabi main event

Bogdan Guskov has stepped in on short notice to replace the injured Khalil Rountree in the UFC Abu Dhabi main event against Magomed Ankalaev on July 25 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. Rountree was forced to withdraw due to injury, leaving the light heavyweight title picture in flux.

Guskov (18–3), an Uzbek light heavyweight ranked tenth, brings an impressive finishing record: he has converted all 18 of his career victories into finishes, with 13 coming in the first round. His most recent outing was a majority draw against former title challenger Jan Blachowicz, ending a four-fight finishing streak.

Ankalaev (20–2) currently holds the UFC light heavyweight title after dethroning Alex Pereira at UFC 313 in March, but suffered a shocking first-round knockout loss to Pereira in an immediate rematch at UFC 320 in October. The Dagestani fighter was previously undefeated across 13 consecutive bouts before that stunning reversal. Guskov's willingness to accept this high-profile replacement bout showcases the elite-level jeopardy of stepping in on short notice against a recently crowned champion, though his one-punch power gives him a theoretical path to victory.