The UFC’s light heavyweight division is witnessing a war of words as Jamahal Hill responds to Magomed Ankalaev’s recent call for a title shot. Ankalaev, coming off a stunning knockout victory over Johnny Walker, expressed his desire to challenge current champion Alex Pereira. However, Hill, recovering from injury, has taken issue with Ankalaev’s claims, sparking a heated exchange of opinions in the contenders’ race.
Ankalaev’s Claim and Hill’s Response
After his impressive win over Walker, Ankalaev argued that he is a more deserving contender than Hill based on his 10 victories, six of which are knockouts, compared to Hill’s eight total UFC fights. In a fiery response on his YouTube channel, Hill dismissed Ankalaev’s claims as “weird math” and questioned the Russian’s fight intelligence. He highlighted Ankalaev’s recent issues with rule-breaking in the cage, pointing out a no-contest and a draw in his last four fights, including the controversial knee against Walker that resulted in a no-contest. Hill suggested that Ankalaev’s style lacks the strategic brilliance expected at the highest level of the sport.
Hill’s Recent Dominance and Entertainment Factor
Emphasizing the entertainment aspect of the sport, Hill argued that he brings excitement to the octagon, contrasting it with Ankalaev’s perceived lack of appeal. Hill asserted that more people are interested in watching him fight, emphasizing his dominance and finishing ability in his last four bouts. He reminded Ankalaev of his former champion status and suggested that Ankalaev squandered his chance to claim the title.
Hill’s response comes while he is on the sidelines recovering from a ruptured Achilles suffered in July. Despite vacating the light heavyweight title, Hill is confident in his status as a must-see fighter in the division. While there is no confirmed timeline for his return, Hill remains a formidable presence in the division, eyeing a potential showdown with Pereira.