UFC Mild Heavyweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev is impressed by one among boxing’s most iconic figures as he prepares to defend his title in opposition to Alex Pereira on the UFC 320 at T-Cell Enviornment in Las Vegas on October 4th.
Magomed Ankalaev named Muhammad Ali his inspiration
When requested about his sport’s inspiration, Ankarayev spoke brazenly in regards to the influence Muhammad Ali had on his profession and his mind-set. Talking by an interpreter, the Russian champion defined his deep connection to the legendary boxer.
“Sports activities-wise, it is undoubtedly Muhammad Ali, as a result of that is the particular person I observe and I am the one who watches his interviews and I am the one who watches his combat. “So, if we’re speaking about sports activities, I am undoubtedly one of many biggest issues ever.”
The 33-year-old Dagestani fighter has constructed his profession with the identical confidence and dedication that made Ali well-known. Ankalaev gained a lightweight heavyweight title at UFC 313 in March, beating Pereira with a affected person unanimous resolution.
After struggling a sole skilled defeat to Paul Craig in his 2018 UFC debut, Ankaraev remained undefeated in his ultimate 13 contests.
Ali’s influence on fight sports activities is much past boxing. His well-known philosophy of “float like a butterfly and sting like a bee” influenced fighter jets of varied fields. The mix of boxing legends’ supreme confidence, technical abilities and psychological indomitable has made him a template for champions in varied sports activities.
The Russian fighter has been speaking about his long-term targets since he introduced his intention to change into a champion since becoming a member of the UFC in 2018. His systematic method to reaching that objective exhibits the dedication that Ali is commonly emphasised in his personal motivational message.
The upcoming rematch with Pereira represents Ankaraev’s first title protection and a possibility to additional strengthen his legacy within the mild heavyweight division. The Brazilian challenger needs to regain the belt he misplaced seven months in the past, establishing what he guarantees to be a fierce championship match.
Fellow UFC stars like Khabib Nurmagomedov additionally cite Ali of their main inspiration, together with different legendary athletes. The mix of boxing icons’ athletic excellence and unwavering confidence created a blueprint for fighters from varied backgrounds and fields.
As Ankalaev prepares for his title protection, he conveys the teachings he has realized from learning some of the influential figures of the game together with him. The champion’s dedication to watching Ali’s fights and interviews clearly shapes his method to competitors. The UFC 320 essential occasion will take a look at whether or not Ankalaev can convey its ALI-inspired belief that he has efficiently defended his title in opposition to a harmful challenger in search of redemption.
