5 potential opponents for Magomed Ankalaev after UFC Vegas 50 win

#2. Magomed Ankalaev vs. Anthony Smith

No.4 ranked UFC light heavyweight Anthony Smith has been within the top contender mix for the past few years. 'Lionheart' is currently on a three-fight winning streak having defeated Devin Clark, Jimmy Crute, and Ryan Spann.

Smith fought for the title against Jon Jones at UFC 235 but was unvictorious. However, he is now in a similar position to Ankalaev, where one big win could be enough to see him fight for the title.

Many were calling for a matchup between the two men after Ankalaev defeated Santos and it would not be surprising if the UFC decided to pair them up in a future bout. Smith has previously called for a fight with Aleksandar Rakić, but he would likely be just as happy with a bout against Ankalaev.

UFC Fight Night: Anthony Smith vs. Ryan Spann

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#1. Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakić

Aleksandar Rakić is arguably the most logical opponent for Magomed Ankalaev right now. As mentioned above, 'Rocket' was scheduled for a number one contender bout with Jan Blachowicz. But with the former champ temporarily out of the picture, Rakić is now in need of a new opponent.

UFC Fight Night: Anthony Smith vs. Aleksandar Rakic

Rakić is coming off a slightly lackluster win over Thiago Santos, similar to Ankalev. Both men are deserving of the positions they hold in the light heavyweight rankings, but need a showcase performance to adhere to the more casual MMA fans. Rakic and Ankalaev are commonly regarded as the two highest level light heavyweights outside of the currently booked title fight.

A statement win over the other would surely raise their profile significantly, whilst also setting the winner up for a shot at the winner of Glover Teixeira vs. Jiri Prochazka for the 205lb title.

UFC 259: Thiago Santos v Aleksandar Rakic