Manager of a number of Russian fighters, including Nikita Krylov Alexander Skaredin, in a conversation with , expressed concern that the UFC is deliberately providing an opportunity for the Russian Magomed Ankalaev getting closer to the title fight.
Ankalaev has 17 wins, one loss and one draw which happened in his last fight with Jan Blachowicz in December last year. At this time, the UFC light heavyweight belt was on the line, which remained vacant. After this fight, Ankalaev said: “I don’t know if I will still compete here.” Ankalaev later clarified that these words were not aimed at the UFC, but in relation to Las Vegas and the local judges. Ankalaev in February 2021 defeated Krylov by unanimous decision. Ankalaev is second in the light heavyweight rankings, while Krylov is fifth.
– Now in the UFC light heavyweight division, an interesting situation: Jamal Hill has declined the belt, and now there are a number of possible fights under consideration. How do you see the revenge option between Ankalaev and Krylov?
– It is clear that we are not against this revenge. And I think with the changes and the experience gained, this fight can play out under a different scenario than when they first met. But personally, I have a feeling the UFC won’t give Ankalaev any fights that could bring him closer to a title fight. It seems to me that the story that unfolded after his fight with Blachowicz touched the UFC. In this situation, I only express my assumptions and concerns about the possible actions of the UFC in relation to the Russian fighter.
– Who remains Krylov’s coveted opponent? You were talking about Anthony Smith.
– In general, he stays. It’s just that the logic here is simple – we look at the notes. There’s also Alexander Rakich (#4), but I think he’s going to be busy now. Plus, there’s Johnny Walker. I think there will be an opponent for Nikita, a fight that Krylov can move forward with,” Skaredin told .
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Source : MatchTV
I am Ashley Ortiz and I am a professional journalist working for Athletistic. My specialty is in sports journalism, particularly boxing. I have written articles for some of the most renowned publications on the subject, and my work has been featured across both print and digital media platforms.
