Chael Sonnen criticizes Ankalaev's exclusion from vacant title fight

Chael Sonnen has publicly criticized the decision to exclude Magomed Ankalaev from the vacant light heavyweight title bout. Sonnen pointed out that Ankalaev holds a 1-1 record against Alex Pereira and is the only fighter in the division who has actually defeated Pereira. Despite this accomplishment, Ankalaev was not even considered for the title fight. Sonnen expressed confusion over why the division's most exciting fighter (Rountree), most intriguing (Jamahal Hill), or most accomplished (Ankalaev) were all passed over. He stated that the current matchup lacks a compelling storyline and features two incorrect participants for a championship bout.