'I was devastated': Magomed Ankalaev reflects on first UFC loss in years

Magomed Ankalaev is moving forward after a difficult stretch following his UFC 320 title loss to Alex Pereira. The Russian light heavyweight was devastated by the knockout defeat in their rematch, which came just 80 seconds into the fight—a stark reversal from their first encounter, where Ankalaev had dominated to claim the title.

The loss marked Ankalaev's first setback since his 2018 Octagon debut submission, ending a long unbeaten run at 205 pounds. In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Ankalaev acknowledged the emotional toll of the defeat. "It's been hard to return. Everybody knows it was a frustrating loss," he said. "It's fair to say I was devastated. But I'm back. Fresh thoughts, cool head, if you will. Now everything is going to be completely different."

Ankalaev (20-2) is set to return at UFC Abu Dhabi with renewed motivation and clarity. Originally scheduled to face Khalil Rountree on July 25, Ankalaev's opponent changed when Rountree withdrew due to injury. Bogdan Guskov has stepped in on two weeks' notice to face the former champion, giving Ankalaev an opportunity to rebuild momentum and work toward another title shot.