Magomed Ankalaev open to Paulo Costa fight next, ‘unless he’s going to be running away’ - MMA Fighting

What the report says

MMA Fighting reported that Magomed Ankalaev is willing to face Paulo Costa next if a UFC light heavyweight title opportunity is delayed. Ankalaev spoke after UFC Abu Dhabi, where he defeated Bogdan Guskov in the main event at Etihad Arena on July 25, 2026, winning by fifth-round stoppage in a bout the outlet described as dominant but poorly received by the crowd.

The exchange followed Costa’s criticism of the fight on social media, where the Brazilian suggested he could bring more excitement to the division. Ankalaev, speaking through a Russian translator at the post-fight press conference, said he considers himself the No. 1 contender but noted that champion Carlos Ulberg is injured. If Ulberg remains unavailable, Ankalaev said he would be open to a fight with Costa, while questioning whether Costa would actually accept.

Costa has recently entered the 205-pound title picture after moving up from middleweight. According to MMA Fighting, he knocked out Azamat Murzakanov in the third round at UFC 327 and has said he wants to pursue the light heavyweight belt. The UFC also announced during the Abu Dhabi broadcast that it plans to return to the city on Oct. 24 for UFC 333, a date Ankalaev indicated could work for a possible Costa matchup.

The report also noted Ankalaev’s continued interest in a third fight with Alex Pereira. Their light heavyweight series is split 1-1, and Ankalaev said he would welcome Pereira back to the division if that bout becomes available.