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Ankalaev was asked to take Prochazka’s spot in the main event and fight for the 205-pound crown. Originally a three-round fight, Ankalaev’s highly anticipated fight with Błachowicz turned into a five-round main event title fight.
“Well, I’m always at home or at the gym,” Ankalaev said. “This time I was at home, and I got a phone call from my manager, and they told me I was fighting [Glover] Teixeira. Shortly after, I got a callback saying Teixeira was out, it’ll be me against Błachowicz, five rounds. Of course, the answer was yes. I’m ready, let’s go.
Commander UFC 282: Blachowicz vs. Ankalaev
“Usually even when it’s a three round fight for me, I still prepare like it’s five rounds, so honestly nothing has really changed. The only thing I can admit is that it changed my approach and my motivation. I’m more motivated.
For Ankalaev, this fight has been going on for more than four years. Giving up his debut by submission in the final second of his fight against Paul Craig, his only loss as a professional, Ankalaev amassed nine straight wins and was considered by many to be a future champion during that streak. This run included breathtaking finishes over Dalcha Lungiambula and Ion Cutelaba, among many dominating performances.
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