Magomed Ankalaev did enough to get his hand raised on Saturday night, but was it enough to secure him the title shot he seeks?
In the main event of UFC Fight Night 203 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, the 29-year-old Russian took a five-round unanimous decision over former light heavyweight title challenger Thiago Santos. The fight played out somewhat surprisingly, as Ankalaev made no earnest attempt to bring “Marreta” to the floor until late in the fourth round. While it made a statement of sorts that Ankalaev won despite most of the fight taking place in his opponent’s wheelhouse, the action was tepid for long stretches and the 49-46, 49-46, 48-47 decision closer than might be expected of such a prohibitive betting favorite.