Former UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev pushes his limits with intense strength and conditioning session, awaiting his next UFC challenge

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev is continuing to push his physical limits. He was recently spotted in an intense strength and conditioning session. The Russian fighter is known for his disciplined approach to training and calculated fighting style. Ankalaev continues to focus on his preparation. He looks to strengthen his position in the UFC light heavyweight division.Ankalaev holds a professional record of 21 wins, two losses, one draw and one no-contest. He won the UFC light heavyweight title by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 313 in March 2025. However, he lost the belt in their rematch at UFC 320 in October 2025. He returned to winning ways in July 2026 with a fifth-round TKO victory over Bogdan Guskov.Magomed Ankalaev combines strength, discipline and fighting experienceAnkalaev has established himself as one of the most experienced fighters in the UFC light heavyweight division. His latest strength and conditioning session reflects the physical demands of competing against elite opponents.The Russian fighter has a background in combat sambo and Greco-Roman wrestling. He began his sporting journey while studying at Dagestan State Pedagogical University in Makhachkala. He later became a champion in amateur MMA and earned several medals at Russian and world competitions.Ankalaev turned professional in 2014. He quickly built an impressive record before joining the UFC in 2017. His promotional debut came against Paul Craig in March 2018. Despite controlling much of the fight, Ankalaev suffered a last-second submission defeat. The setback became an important learning experience in his career.He bounced back with a knockout victory over Marcin Prachnio in September 2018. Ankalaev then put together an impressive run of performances. He defeated several established names, including Nikita Krylov, Volkan Oezdemir, Thiago Santos and Anthony Smith.His disciplined striking has become one of his biggest strengths. He has a combat sambo background. It also helps him maintain balance and defend against takedowns.Ankalaev reached the top of the division when he faced Pereira for the vacant light heavyweight championship at UFC 313. He secured a unanimous decision victory. He became the first Russian fighter to win the UFC light heavyweight title.However, Pereira reclaimed the championship in their rematch at UFC 320. The Brazilian stopped Ankalaev with punches and elbows in the first round.Ankalaev responded to the defeat by returning to the Octagon in July 2026. He faced Bogdan Guskov in the main event of UFC Fight Night and secured a fifth-round TKO victory. The result took his professional record to 21 wins, two losses and one draw, with one no-contest.At 34, Ankalaev remains a major name in the 205-pound division. His combination of striking, defensive wrestling and combat sambo experience makes him a difficult opponent.His latest training effort underlines the physical demands of remaining competitive at the highest level.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.