Chael Sonnen has voiced strong criticism over Magomed Ankalaev not being included in the vacant light heavyweight title fight. Sonnen pointed out that Ankalaev is 1-1 against Alex Pereira and is the only fighter in that group to have defeated Pereira, yet he wasn't even considered for the title bout. Sonnen argued that the division's most spectacular fighter (Rountree), most intriguing (Jamahal Hill), or most accomplished (Ankalaev) should have been included instead. He stated the current matchup has such a weak storyline that people aren't even discussing the absence of the right fighters, calling both current participants the wrong choices for the title fight.
