Bogdan Guskov Takes on Jan Blachowicz at UFC 323

Embracing the Challenge of a Former Champion

Rising light heavyweight sensation Bogdan Guskov is ready to embrace the pressure as he steps into the Octagon against former champion Jan Blachowicz at UFC 323. The fight presents Guskov with a major career milestone, and he sees the matchup as a chance to elevate his status in the division.

Guskov enters the fight on a four-fight knockout streak, having stopped Nikita Krylov, Billy Elekana, Ryan Spann, and Zac Pauga. He expressed excitement about facing a fighter of Blachowicz’s caliber, who has defeated top-tier opponents such as Israel Adesanya, Corey Anderson, and Luke Rockhold.

“The opponent is a very tough guy, a former champion,” Guskov shared with MMA Fighting. “This is a big step in my career. I think about the future because this is the moment that could change my career and my life. It’s another contract, another experience for me because this guy is at the top of the division. He fought big names. I feel some pressure, but that’s normal, and I like it.”

Confidence Meets Respect

Guskov acknowledges that facing a top-tier competitor means proving his own abilities. “I feel that I, too, am one of the best guys,” he said. Still, he knows that underestimating Blachowicz would be a mistake. The Polish star comes into the fight after a 2022 victory over Aleksandar Rakic, a draw with Magomed Ankalaev, and subsequent decision losses to Alex Pereira and Carlos Ulberg.

When asked for his prediction for UFC 323, Guskov emphasized strategy over raw power. “The cage will show everything,” he said. “This guy is very strong. He may be older, but he has power. I need to show smart power. Let’s see what happens.”

Eyes on the Division and Future Opportunities

A victory at UFC 323 would likely catapult Guskov into the light heavyweight top 10, but he remains focused on the task at hand rather than matchmaking. With champion Alex Pereira occasionally hinting at a potential move to heavyweight, the 205-pound title picture could open up in 2026.

“I think after this fight, maybe one more step, and then maybe a title shot,” Guskov said. “I believe it, and I hope for it. If Alex moves to heavyweight, there are other top contenders—Carlos Ulberg, Jiri Prochazka, and Jamahal Hill, who said he would return next year. I don’t want to fight Hill, but if it’s for a title, I know I have to go. He’s a good guy; every time we meet at the UFC Performance Institute, we talk, and he’s very respectful.”

Guskov’s mindset reflects a mix of ambition, respect, and strategic planning as he seeks to make a lasting mark in the light heavyweight division.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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