Magomed Ankalaev, preparing for a title challenge against Alex Pereira at UFC 313, reflects on his unexpected journey into sports, beginning with Sambo and merging into mixed martial arts. After a disappointing draw in his first title bid, he is eager and hopeful for a fresh opportunity for UFC gold. Despite respecting Pereira's accomplishments in striking, Ankalaev believes he presents a unique challenge, having faced various fighting styles throughout his career. He aims to capitalize on this new chance to secure the championship title.
"I can say that sort of my life led me to sports. I got into Sambo and I saw that I was doing good in it, I was improving in it. And slowly, step-by-step, I became a fighter."
"It is what it is. That is the past. We missed that opportunity in the past, but now this is a whole new thing, it's a whole new goal, new opportunity."
"We're obviously not underestimating and not belittling all the accomplishments that he has, he's a great fighter. But he's only fought strikers, he's only been in there with..."
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