Magomed Ankalaev

Fighter Information

Magomed Alibulatovich Ankalaev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist, born June 2, 1992, in Teletl', Dagestan, Russia. He currently competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is the former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Known for his disciplined striking style grounded in his background in Greco-Roman wrestling and Combat Sambo, Ankalaev has developed into a patient, counter-striking light heavyweight with a strong emphasis on distance management. As of November 11, 2025, he is #12 in the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings and on October 7, 2025, he was ranked #1 in the UFC light heavyweight rankings.
Full Name :
Magomed Alibulatovich Ankalaev
Birthdate :
02 June 1992
Birthplace :
Teletl', Dagestan, Russia
Height (cm) :
191
Weight (kg) :
93
Residence :
Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia
Nationality :
Russia
Education :
DPSU (University)
Career Started :
2014
Current Team :
Fight Club Akhmat Xtreme Couture Mixed Martial Arts
Rank Belt :
International Master of Sport in Amateur MMA, Master of Sport in Combat Sambo
Reach :
191
Active Status :
From - 2014, To - Present
Stance :
Southpaw

Biography

Magomed Ankalaev is a skilled fighter in the UFC light heavyweight division, shifting from a successful amateur career in Combat Sambo to professional MMA in 2018. Known for his striking accuracy and defensive skill, he boasts a record of 21 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. Ankalaev captured the UFC title on March 8, 2025, defeating Alex Pereira. With a strong family support system and ongoing skill development, his path continues to evolve in the world of combat sports. More details about his impressive career and personal life can be uncovered.

Early Life

Magomed Ankalaev is a professional mixed martial artist who began his expedition in combat sports at a young age. As a child, he was drawn to the martial arts scene and quickly excelled in Combat Sambo, ultimately earning the title of master of sports.

This early dedication to training helped him cultivate his grappling and striking skills. Throughout his school years, he competed in numerous tournaments, securing multiple amateur championships, including World and Russian titles.

These accomplishments not only highlighted his talent but also laid a solid foundation for his shift to professional MMA in 2018, where he quickly made a name for himself in the light heavyweight division of the UFC.

His background in Combat Sambo has been instrumental in shaping his fighting style and approach to competition.

Family Life

Magomed Ankalaev keeps his family life largely private, focusing primarily on his career as a UFC fighter. He places a strong emphasis on the importance of family support in balancing his demanding training and fight schedule.

While details about his family members are not extensively shared, it is known that he values the time spent with loved ones.

Occasionally, he offers insights into his personal life on social media, displaying moments with friends and family, which highlights the close relationships he maintains outside the octagon.

Career

Magomed Ankalaev initiated his professional MMA expedition in 2018, quickly rising through the ranks with an impressive record of 21 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw.

He demonstrated his skill in the light heavyweight division with a remarkable 14-fight unbeaten streak, comprising 12 victories and 1 no contest. Ankalaev solidified his status as a top contender by capturing the UFC title on March 8, 2025, after defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 313.

Known for his striking abilities, he maintains a notable strikes landed per minute (SLpM) rate of 3.66 with a striking accuracy of 52%.

Furthermore, his impressive defensive capabilities are highlighted by an 87% takedown defense rate, making him a challenging opponent in the octagon.

Net Worth

Magomed Ankalaev’s net worth is estimated to be around $266,000 as of March 2025, reflecting his successful MMA career with a record of 21 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw.

In his top five fights, Ankalaev has drawn salaries of $60,000, $75,000, $80,000, $50,000, and $1,000 for a total of $266,000.

Ankalaev’s earnings are likely enhanced by fight bonuses and sponsorships, with potential for growth as he advances in the UFC light heavyweight division.

As a top contender in this division, he is positioned to benefit from increased earnings through future fights and title opportunities.