UFC light heavyweight Paul Craig has his back firmly against the wall needing a victory to hang onto his roster spot and he’ll have to do it against Modestas Bukauskas at UFC Paris on Saturday.
Craig (17-9-1) was on a 3-fight losing streak before some of the most unique fight circumstances paved his way to Paris. A fight with Rodolfo Bellato did not materialize in May due to the Brazilian dealing with a health issue.
The fight was rebooked for June, but it ended in a no contest due to an illegal, albeit accidental, up kick from Craig hurt Bellato. Bellato was seemingly knocked out by the illegal shot at the octagon doctor said he couldn’t continue.
Craig must now save his roster spot against a very tough Bukauskas in Paris.
Bukauskas (18-6) comes in on a 3-fight win streak with victories over Marcin Prachnio, Raffael Cerqueria and Ion Cutelaba. The 205er is making the best of his second run in the UFC as he inches closer to a ranking.
Round 1 – Craig employed a kick to the lead leg early on to try and keep Bukauskas at bay. It didn’t do much with Bukauskas rushing him repeatedly with flurries and landing. He’d then clinch Craig on the fence and land in close before bailing out and getting back to striking.
Near the end of the round he ran in on a flurry and landed shots on Craig. Craig looked for a takedown, but couldn’t get it. Craig jumped for a sub, ended up on his back, and Bukauskas went off with ground and pound.
A last second elbow put Craig out and the fight was called.
Bukauskas asked for a shot at the top 15 and Craig retired following the bout.
Official Result: Modestas Bukauskas def. Paul Craig via R1 KO, 5:00
