Magomed Ankalaev has candidly opened up about the circumstances he’s found himself in during UFC 313 fight week.
On Saturday evening, the Russian sensation will go head-to-head with Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title, inside The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
Since Ankalaev lost his very first UFC fight, to a man who’s now a professional wrestler, he’s looked nothing short of fantastic, becoming a competitor many think can bring an end to ‘Poatan’s’ reign over the 205-pound division.
However, in order to claim the belt, he’ll have to navigate his way through a minefield, in the form of Pereria launching left hooks towards his face.
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Magomed Ankalaev says he isn’t strictly following Ramadan during UFC 313 fight week
Magomed Ankalaev is a devout Muslim, who usually follows Ramadan to the letter. During this period, from dawn to sunset, he abstains from eating and drinking for a 30-day period.
However, this year, he’s had to make allowances to ensure he’s healthy for his upcoming fight.
The warrior has been adhering to Ramadan since it commenced on February 28.
However, with his major clash against Pereira just days away, he’s given himself a degree of leeway.
In an interview with Ag. Fight, Ankalaev explained: “I have been following the fast strictly except for this week, where I will have to break it a few times because I need to make sure I drink water to have a successful weight cut.
“But apart from that, I started with Ramadan. I have been fasting. And after the fight, I will obviously also follow the rules of religion as it has to be.”
Magomed Ankalaev is already talking about an immediate rematch with Alex Pereira
Ankalaev is now on the cusp of writing his name into the UFC history books.
But actually securing the win will be anything but easy, as his opponent has proven himself to be a truly terrifying operator.
However, the Dagestani isn’t just confident that he can beat the powerhouse once, but that he could back it up and do it again.
Interestingly, Ankalaev is already discussing a rematch with Pereria.