UFC 308 is just around the corner, featuring a stacked fight card where fighters will be eager to showcase their skills and establish dominance in their respective weight classes. While the main event and co-main event have drawn significant attention from fans, one of the most highly anticipated matchups—the light heavyweight bout between top-ranked contender Magomed Ankalaev and Aleksandar Rakic, has not received the same level of focus.

This fight is crucial for Ankalaev as he aims to solidify his position in the light heavyweight rankings. UFC head honcho Dana White has stated that the outcome of this fight could be key to a future title shot. Before speculating on the fight’s result, let’s take a closer look at these light heavyweight contenders and how they have built their MMA careers.

UFC 308 fight – Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksander Rakic stats

Thirty-two-year-old Magomed Ankalaev has amassed 19 wins in his professional MMA career, having been defeated only once—during his debut fight in the UFC against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert Paul Craig. Since that setback, Ankalaev has never looked back, going on an impressive run and finishing top contenders like Johnny Walker and Thiago Santos. His latest victory over Walker, secured with a devastating shot, has solidified his position as a title contender.

However, Ankalaev’s journey was not without challenges. He faced an embarrassing defeat early in his amateur MMA career, but that also became a turning point for him, motivating him to improve and succeed. In contrast, Austrian prospect Aleksandar Rakic boasts 14 wins in his MMA record but has not enjoyed the same level of consistency as Ankalaev. ‘Rocket’ has experienced four defeats in his professional career, including losses under the UFC banner against fighters like Anthony Smith and Jiří Procházka.

But how would the fight proceed? Magomed Ankalaev is recognized for his powerful striking and precision, while ‘Rocket’ excels at taking the fight to the mat and utilizing his grappling skills. Let’s put on our speculation caps and analyze how this fight might unfold.

Ankalaev vs. Rakic breakdown and prediction

In his upcoming battle for the light heavyweight title shot, Magomed Ankalaev has been a fan favorite, while Aleksandar Rakic carries an underdog demeanor. This fight is particularly personal for Ankalaev, as the UFC has not provided him with a title shot despite earning the top-ranked position.

Ankalaev recently expressed his frustration in a candid interview, stating, “I will smash their face so that they can no longer deny me if I do my job impressively. I feel sorry for whoever is gonna fight me from now going forward.” He vowed to prove his words right and, unlike previous times, he plans to target ‘Rocket’s’ lead leg with mixed kicks, incorporating some double jabs before landing the final blow, similar to what he showcased in his previous bout against Johnny Walker.

However, we can’t deny that Aleksandar Rakic can bounce back, as he often does with his sudden hooks and kicks. He has already demonstrated his proficiency in counterattacks with impressive technique, which seems to be in his favor. Overall, Ankalaev appears to be the likely winner of this bout.

Now all eyes are on the upcoming UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, where Dagestani prospect Magomed Ankalaev will be looking to silence his critics with a strong performance against ranked #5 contender Aleksandar Rakic. Who will you be rooting for: ‘Rocket’ or Ankalaev? Drop your opinion below.