Ankalaev Suggests Ideal Date to Face Borrachinha in UFC

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Ankalaev with the UFC belt. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Magomed Ankalaev agreed with the reasons given by Paulo Borrachinha for not facing him at UFC Abu Dhabi , scheduled for next Saturday (25). Still, the Russian defended holding the fight on a date more suitable to the Brazilian's schedule.

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After having his fight against Khalil Rountree canceled due to an injury to his opponent, Ankalaev saw the fighter from Minas Gerais refuse the duel at the last minute and indicated a more suitable time for the fight to take place.

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In a social media post, Ankalaev stated that he understands Borrachinha's decision, but reiterated his interest in the fight. The Russian highlighted that he intends to win his UFC Au Dhabi bout and then face the Brazilian between October and November.

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“I agree with him, face me. They don’t need eight weeks; they need ten years. I’ll win my next fight, and then you and I can fight in October or November. It would be a pleasure,” Ankalaev wrote.

I agree with him—fight me. They don't need eight weeks; they need ten years.

I'll win my next fight, and then you and I can fight in October or November. It would be my pleasure

— Muhammad big ANK Ankalaev (@AnkalaevM) July 14, 2026

Magomed Ankalaev has a duel scheduled at UFC Abu Dhabi

Although he's eyeing a potential matchup against Paulo Borrachinha , Magomed Ankalaev has a more immediate task to accomplish in the UFC. The Russian, coming off a tough loss to Alex Poatan , returns to the octagon in the main event of UFC Abu Dhabi.

The former light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg) will face Bogdan Guskov , who accepted the fight as a replacement for the injured Khalil Rountree.

Magomed Ankalaev and Paulo Borrachinha could fight for the UFC interim title.

Even with Carlos Ulberg as the current light heavyweight champion, a potential duel between Ankalaev and Borrachinha could be for the division's interim belt. This is because the Australian suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and there is still no timetable for his return to the octagon, opening the way for the creation of an interim title in the category.