Ankalaev reveals mental trauma after loss to Alex Poatan in the UFC: 'It was difficult'

Poatan attacks Ankalaev. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Magomed Ankalaev faced a true mental battle after his defeat to Alex Poatan at UFC 320, held in October 2025. Knocked out by the Brazilian in just 80 seconds, the Russian lost his light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg), a scenario that directly impacted his return to the octagon.

Back in action this Saturday (25), at UFC Abu Dhabi , Ankalaev revealed that the period away was marked by emotional difficulties. In an interview with 'Red Corner MMA', the fighter admitted that the defeat to Poatan left its mark, but guaranteed he is renewed for the new phase.

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“It’s been a long time. I wanted to come back, but I had traumas. It was difficult because the last fight (against Poatan) was a defeat. But now I’m back, with a fresh mind, with a cool head. I think now everything will be different,” said Ankalaev.

Relive Magomed Ankalaev's defeat to Alex Poatan at UFC 320.

Magomed Ankalaev may face Paulo Borrachinha in the UFC.

Scheduled to face Bogdan Guskov , who accepted to replace the injured Khalil Rountree at UFC Abu Dhabi , Magomed Ankalaev is already planning a quick return if he wins. The Russian revealed that, even after Paulo Borrachinha declined the fight at short notice due to lack of preparation, he remains interested in the duel.

Ankalaev indicated that, if he has his arm raised this Saturday (25), he could face the Brazilian at the end of October or in November. The possible confrontation gains even more relevance given the scenario of the division, since the light heavyweight champion, Carlos Ulberg , tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and has no return date to the octagon.

Therefore, the fight between Ankalaev and Borrachinha could be for the category's belt, depending on the UFC's decision regarding the interim title.

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