
Islam Makhachev Defends Welterweight Title Against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330
Islam Makhachev Successfully Defends Welterweight Title vs. Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330

The highly anticipated bout between Magomed Ankalaev and Bogdan Guskov took place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Ankalaev, known for his powerful striking and aggressive fighting style, was expected to emerge victorious. However, the Russian fighter's performance was nothing short of phenomenal, as he dominated Guskov from start to finish, forcing the referee to stop the fight in the fifth round.
Going into the fight, Ankalaev was considered the heavier hitter, with 22 wins and 2 losses in his MMA career. Guskov, on the other hand, had 18 wins and 4 losses, and had been looking to capitalize on his own strengths. However, as the bell rang for the first round, it became apparent that Ankalaev was not planning on giving Guskov any leeway. The Russian fighter took control of the center of the octagon, using his powerful kicks to keep Guskov at bay. Guskov, known for his aggressive style, was caught off guard by Ankalaev's quickness and footwork, struggling to land any significant shots throughout the round.
The second round saw Ankalaev continuing to control the pace of the fight, using his quick jabs to keep Guskov at a distance. Guskov, determined to turn the fight around, looked to take the fight to the ground, but Ankalaev was having none of it. The Russian fighter expertly defended Guskov's takedown attempts, using his powerful striking to keep the fight standing. As the round came to a close, it was clear that Ankalaev was gaining momentum, and Guskov was starting to tire.
The third round saw Guskov's energy level dwindle even further, as Ankalaev continued to apply pressure. The Russian fighter's kicks were becoming increasingly devastating, leaving Guskov reeling. However, Guskov refused to give up, continuing to look for opportunities to take the fight to the ground. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, sensing that the fight was about to turn into a decisive victory for Ankalaev.
In the fourth round, Ankalaev's dominant display continued, with Guskov struggling to keep up. The Russian fighter's power and precision were on full display, as he landed several crushing kicks and punches that left Guskov battered and bruised. It was clear that Guskov was running out of options, and Ankalaev sensed his victory within reach.
The final round saw Ankalaev pull out all the stops, using every ounce of energy to deliver a devastating display of striking. Guskov, on the other hand, was fighting for his life, using every trick in the book to try and stay in the fight. However, it was too little, too late, as Ankalaev's relentless pressure eventually forced Guskov's corner to throw in the towel.
Magomed Ankalaev handed Bogdan Guskov a crushing defeat, forcing the referee to stop the fight in the fifth round at UFC Abu Dhabi. Ankalaev's performance was a masterclass in pressure and control, leaving Guskov struggling to keep up.