LAS VEGAS – UFC light heavyweight Bogdan Guskov will have bragging rights over his fellow fighters from Uzbekistan.
Guskov (16-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC) will likely find a number next to his name when the promotion releases its updated rankings after UFC on ESPN 55. In the UFC Apex co-main event, Guskov finished in the top 15 fighters Ryan Spann with powerful punches in Round 2.
It was a ride worthy of a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus, but more importantly for Guskov, it will likely result in his name entering the UFC light heavyweight rankings.
“If I reach the top 15, I will be the first fighter from Uzbekistan to reach the top,” Guskov told reporters during a post-fight press conference. “This is history, this is my story. From Uzbekistan we have two more strong guys and I’m the first. I’m very happy at the moment.”
Guskov completes the trio of active fighters from Uzbekistan and admits there is a friendly rivalry between Muradov and Ruziboev to be the first to reach certain milestones. Both beat Guskov in the bonus race, but he can lay claim to being the first promotionally-rated fighter from his home country.
“The two guys are good friends. We are always talking about supporting each other. This is like a motivational sports competition. It’s good, I think it’s good. … I love this.”
For more information on the card, visit the MMA Junkie events hub to UFC on ESPN 55.
