Why light heavyweights Nikita Krylov and Paul Craig were on the UFC London preliminary card was anyone’s guess.
The 205lb showdown was easily worthy of a main card placement, given both men were ranked inside of the top 15. More importantly, it was a crucial match-up for Craig, riding an impressive undefeated streak and looking at a chance to break inside the top 10.
Both fighters took the center of the octagon immediately with no a touch of gloves. Krylov threw a punch immediately. Craig grabbed a leg, but Krylov got a takedown and landed a couple of heavy shots from the bottom. Two minutes into the fight and Krylov was driving his shoulder into Craig’s face and throat. 2:40, and Krylov landed more ground and pound that looked to possibly put Craig out but also woke him back up. Craig tried for an armbar, but Krylov defended. Craig threw up a triangle choke and forced Krylov to tap.
What a comeback!!!
Craig is now on a four-fight win streak, with three of four of them coming in the first round. In his post-fight interview, he called for a main event fight with Anthony Smith in June.
Krylov has now dropped his last two.
Paul Craig def. Nikita Krylov via submission (triangle choke) Round 1, 3:57
