Magomed Ankalaev Teases Heavyweight Move – Aspinall Clash on the Horizon?

The UFC light heavyweight division could be heading toward a major shake-up as reigning champion Magomed Ankalaev has openly teased the idea of moving up to the heavyweight division in the near future. In a recent interview, Ankalaev admitted that his time at 205 pounds might be limited and suggested he could make the jump to heavyweight after just “two more fights.” The news has set the MMA community abuzz, especially with fans already speculating about a potential clash between Ankalaev and Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion.

Ankalaev’s Dominance at Light Heavyweight

Since entering the UFC, Magomed Ankalaev has carved out a reputation as one of the most technically sound and dangerous fighters in the light heavyweight division. His blend of crisp striking, powerful wrestling, and relentless composure has made him a nightmare for opponents.

Ankalaev’s championship win cemented him as the king at 205 pounds, but the Russian standout has long been considered a fighter with the frame and skill set to thrive at heavyweight. Standing at 6’3” with a strong grappling base and knockout power, he already possesses many of the tools needed to compete against the biggest men in the sport.

However, before moving up, Ankalaev has made it clear that he wants to defend his belt at least a couple of times. He sees value in solidifying his reign before embarking on the challenge of chasing greatness in a second division.

Ankalaev’s Statement Sparks Buzz

Speaking candidly about his future, Ankalaev revealed:

“I have thought about moving up [to heavyweight]… I believe maybe two more fights, and then I will go to heavyweight.”

This statement immediately lit a fire across the MMA landscape. Fans and pundits started imagining potential heavyweight matchups, with one name standing out above the rest—Tom Aspinall.

Why Heavyweight Makes Sense for Ankalaev

The idea of Ankalaev moving up is not just fantasy matchmaking; it makes a lot of sense for his career. The light heavyweight division, while talented, has lacked long-term stability since the departure of Jon Jones. Ankalaev’s dominance could quickly leave him without exciting new challenges at 205 pounds.

At heavyweight, however, the landscape is wide open. Fighters like Tom Aspinall, Sergei Pavlovich, Ciryl Gane, Curtis Blaydes, and Jon Jones offer a fresh set of stylistic puzzles for the Russian champion. The move would also elevate his legacy, putting him in line to potentially become a rare two-division champion—a feat that would cement his name among the sport’s all-time greats.

Tom Aspinall: The Perfect First Test?

If Ankalaev makes the move, the most intriguing matchup is undoubtedly against Tom Aspinall, the British heavyweight sensation who currently holds the interim heavyweight title. Aspinall’s meteoric rise has made him one of the division’s brightest stars. With his speed, agility, and technical boxing, Aspinall presents a unique challenge for anyone in the heavyweight division.

Fans are already envisioning a potential Aspinall vs Ankalaev showdown, a fight that would pit two of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC against each other. For the UFC, such a clash would be a blockbuster event—pairing a dominant light heavyweight champion testing new waters against a heavyweight champion looking to solidify his reign.

Style Matchup: Ankalaev vs Aspinall

A matchup between Ankalaev and Aspinall would be a chess match with explosive potential.

• Striking: Aspinall’s boxing is arguably the sharpest in the heavyweight division, with quick combinations and precise timing. Ankalaev, however, has an iron chin and calculated striking that could neutralize wild exchanges. His patient, counter-heavy style could create problems for Aspinall if the Brit grows too aggressive.

• Grappling: While Aspinall has shown impressive ground skills, Ankalaev’s wrestling pedigree would test his defensive grappling in ways he hasn’t yet faced. Ankalaev’s ability to control opponents on the mat could play a huge role if he looks to grind Aspinall down.

• Size and Power: This is where Aspinall might have the edge. Naturally a heavyweight, Aspinall carries more bulk and knockout power. Ankalaev would need to adjust to the increased size and strength of heavyweight opponents, though his technique and fight IQ might bridge that gap.

Legacy Implications

Should Ankalaev move up and defeat a fighter like Aspinall, it would instantly elevate him into the pantheon of UFC greats. Becoming a two-division champion is already a rare feat, but doing so against one of the most promising heavyweights in years would be historic.

For Aspinall, facing a fighter like Ankalaev would be the ultimate test of his abilities. Defeating the reigning light heavyweight champion would not only unify his standing but also bolster his claim as the best heavyweight in the world.

The UFC’s Perspective

From a promotional standpoint, a potential Ankalaev vs Aspinall fight is a dream scenario. It has all the ingredients of a massive pay-per-view event: two champions, two different divisions, and two fighters with contrasting styles but overlapping ambitions.

The UFC thrives on moments that capture the imagination of fans, and a clash between Ankalaev and Aspinall would do exactly that. With Jon Jones expected to face Stipe Miocic before the end of his career, the UFC is already preparing for a new heavyweight era. Ankalaev’s arrival could accelerate that transition and create fresh storylines.

What’s Next for Ankalaev?

Before fans get too carried away, it’s important to remember Ankalaev’s words: he still intends to fight twice more at light heavyweight. That means defenses against top contenders in the division remain likely. Names like Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Aleksandar Rakic are all potential challengers waiting in the wings.

Each of these fights would not only allow Ankalaev to further cement his reign but also give him time to properly prepare for the jump to heavyweight. Adding two more defenses would bolster his legacy and ensure he leaves 205 pounds as a dominant, undisputed king.

Conclusion

The idea of Magomed Ankalaev moving to heavyweight has sent ripples through the MMA world, and with good reason. His combination of technical striking, wrestling pedigree, and championship mentality makes him a legitimate threat in any weight class. While his immediate focus remains on defending his light heavyweight crown, the prospect of a future clash with Tom Aspinall has fans and analysts salivating.

Whether it happens in a year or two, the thought of Ankalaev stepping into the Octagon against Aspinall is one of the most tantalizing matchups on the UFC horizon. For now, Ankalaev continues his reign at 205 pounds, but the heavyweight division is on notice—the light heavyweight king may soon be coming for a second crown.