Ankalaev (left) and the head of the Republic of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov (right). Photo: Reproduced from Instagram/ankalaev_magomed
The victory of Magomed Ankalayev about Alex Poatán gained historic status in his homeland. After winning the light heavyweight belt (up to 93kg) last Saturday (8), in UFC 313, the athlete was awarded the title by the head of the Republic of Dagestan, Sergei Alimovich Melikov.
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The medal was described by the now UFC champion as 'the greatest award of the Republic'. In a post on his official Instagram profile, Ankalaev thanked the honor and congratulated the head of state for the attention given to the athletes.
“At the invitation of the head of the Republic of Dagestan, my coaches and I visited the government, where a pleasant surprise awaited me: Sergei Alimovich Melikov presented me with the highest award of the republic. During the meeting, we heard many warm words and important instructions that inspired us to work even harder and represent the country with dignity on the international stage. Thank you, Sergei Alimovich, for your support and attention to the athletes!”, Ankalaev wrote.
Ankalaev is not the only athlete from the Ultimate roster to receive recognition. His compatriot Islam makhachev have received the Medal of Honor in the past. Both UFC champions were honored for representing their people at the highest level.
Watch the moment when the medal was awarded to Ankalaev
Magomed @AnkalaevM has received Dagestan's medal of honor from the head of the republic, Sergey Melikov. The UFC light heavyweight champion described the medal in an Instagram post as “Dagestan's highest reward”.
UFC lightweight champion Islam makhachev was previously awarded… pic.twitter.com/YK9fhe0hIc
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 14, 2025
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