Daniel Cormier believes Magomed Ankalaev did enough at UFC Abu Dhabi to strengthen his push for a UFC title shot. After watching Ankalaev’s performance at UFC Fight Night 282, Cormier pointed to the late finish as the key moment that may have separated him from other contenders.
Ankalaev, who improved his record with a dominant showing against Bogdan Guskov, appeared to control the fight before getting the stoppage. According to Cormier’s view, that ending mattered because a finish can carry more weight in the title conversation than a one-sided decision, especially in a crowded division.
Cormier also sees Carlos Ulberg vs. Magomed Ankalaev as a realistic next UFC title fight. That comment suggests he views Ankalaev as firmly in the mix for championship plans following his latest win, with the Abu Dhabi result helping clarify where he stands among the top names.
The main takeaway from Cormier’s reaction is that timing and style both matter in the UFC. Ankalaev did not just win at UFC Abu Dhabi — he closed the show, and Cormier thinks that could be the difference between waiting for another contender bout and moving directly into a title opportunity.
