Is Magomed Ankalaev from Dagestan?

Last Modified Mar 3, 2025 18:32 GMT
UFC 308 Ceremonial Weigh-in
UFC 308 Ceremonial Weigh-in

Magomed Ankalaev is a Russian mixed martial arts competitor who is currently signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Competing in the light heavyweight weight division, Ankalaev is a leading contender in the UFC’s light heavyweight rankings. Magomed Ankalaev started his professional mixed martial arts career on January 18, 2014, against Vasily Babich at Oplot Challenge 96 in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Ankalaev prevailed over his opponent by winning the bout via a majority decision in his favor. He cruised on to establish an impeccable win streak of 9 fights before encountering the only loss of his professional career against Paul Craig.

He made his debut in the Ultimate Fighting Championship against Paul Craig on March 17, 2018, at UFC Fight Night: Werdum vs. Volkov in London, England. Ankalaev lost the fight in the third round via a triangle choke. The defeat against Craig is the only loss in his professional career.

Magomed Ankalaev's nationality

Magomed Ankalaev is from Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia. He received his education from Dagestan State University, earning himself a degree in sports faculty. Makhachkala, whose former name was Petrovskoye, is the largest city in Dagestan, a republic in Russia.

Are Khabib and Ankalaev related?

No, Khabib and Ankalaev are not related. The number three ranked UFC lightweight fighter, Magomed Ankalaev, and the former UFC lightweight champion and Hall of Famer, Khabib Nurmagomedov do not share any relations with each other. The only relationship that the duo has is that both of them hail from Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia.

Magomed Ankalaev's coach

Magomed Ankalaev is coached by Sukhrab Magomedov, who is also the head coach of his team. He trains at Fight Club Akhmat, where mixed martial arts coach Shamil Alibatyrov is also a part of his training team.

Also Read: Who defeated Magomed Ankalaev?

FAQs on Magomed Ankalaev

A. He was born in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia.


A. No, he is not related to Khabib Nurmagomedov.


A. Sukhrab Magomedov is Magomed Ankalaev’s coach.


A. Paul Craig defeated Magomed Ankalaev in a professional MMA bout.


A. No, he didn't win the light heavyweight belt at UFC 282.

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