Nikolay Veretennikov made his promotional debut at UFC Vegas 95, a little under three years on from his 2021 Contender Series appearance, taking on Danny Barlow.
While it was Veretennikov stepping in to replace Uros Medic in the fight, Barlow had actually come in heavy, albeit by just a quarter of a pound.
In round one early on, Veretennikov landed a thudding straight right to the body. Barlow was being measured but did time a nice knee to the body. Also, a counter hammerfist from Barlow landed which was awkward but effective. Barlow was swinging wild and Veretennikov was doing a good job of slipping out of the way. Barlow landed quite a bit in round one with his kicks to the legs and body. Veretennikov was almost taken down but had good balance but was taken down in the final seconds.
In round two Veretennikov came out stalking forward. Both guys were looking for openings but Barlow continued to go first. Barlow’s kicks were the highlight of this fight to that point. Barlow timed a beautiful left hand as Veretennikov threw something, which was the biggest moment of the fight thus far. Veretennikov had to clinch up but Barlow quickly turned it around and put him against the cage. A low blow from Veretennikov caused a pause in the action. They resumed back in the clinch but it didn’t stay there long. Barlow ended the last minute of the round with long jabs but a nice right from Veretennikov to end the round.
Going into the final round it was likely Veretennikov needed a finish. He was the one pressing the action but Barlow was elusive and sticking on the outside. Veretennikov would throw looping punches where Barlow was beating him to the punch with the straights. It was clear Barlow had a speed advantage not just with his hands but with his feet. Veretennikov did get some respect with a clubbing right hand and charging forward with some power shots. Veretennikov started to find his rhythm but Barlow was taking it well. With a minute left a looping left hook from Veretennikov landed. Barlow let off the gas in the third but survived to the bell likely winning the first two rounds.
Come the scorecards, there was one surprise: two judges had it for Danny Barlow, but the third awarded all three rounds to Veretennikov. That scorecard will certainly raise eyebrows.
Official Result: Danny Barlow def. Nikolay Veretennikov by split decision (29-28, 27-30, 29-28)
