A rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Jan Blachowicz for the Abu Dhabi card came within hours of being finalized before falling through. Ankalaev is now looking for a new opponent for the Belgrade event, with Bogdan and a rematch against Jan Blachowicz both in discussion as potential matchups.
A reported rematch between light heavyweight title contender Magomed Ankalaev and former champion Jan Blachowicz came within hours of being finalized for a UFC Abu Dhabi card before the deal collapsed, according to unconfirmed reports. With that booking off the table, Ankalaev's team is now said to be exploring alternatives for a Belgrade event, with Bogdan and a second meeting with Blachowicz both under discussion as potential options.
Ankalaev enters the search for a new opponent as the number-one ranked light heavyweight in the division and fifth on the pound-for-pound list. The 34-year-old Russian, who trains out of Gorets Fight Club, carries a record of 21-2-1 and stands six-foot-three with a 75-inch reach. He lands 3.65 significant strikes per minute at a 52 percent accuracy rate, making him one of the more precise offensive fighters in the 205-pound class.
Blachowicz, meanwhile, holds a record of 29-11-2 and is ranked fifth in the division. The 43-year-old Pole from WCA Fight Team stands six-foot-two with a 78-inch reach. He averages 3.44 significant strikes per minute with 49 percent accuracy and adds a takedown dimension to his game, averaging 1.03 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Ankalaev is the top-ranked contender at light heavyweight, making his next opponent selection highly consequential for the division's title picture.
- A rematch with Blachowicz carries history, as the two previously fought to a draw, leaving questions unresolved between them.
- The Belgrade card now has a notable gap at or near its top, and whichever matchup is confirmed will shape the 205-pound rankings heading into the back half of 2026.
- None of these bookings are officially confirmed, and the situation remains fluid.
