UFC on ABC 9: Nikita Krylov vs Bogdan Guskov

At UFC on ABC 9, held on July 26, 2025, Nikita Krylov faced off against Bogdan Guskov in a light heavyweight showdown that quickly turned into a display of precision and power. Krylov, known for his aggressive style and finishing ability, started the fight by pushing the pace with heavy leg kicks and combinations, looking to impose his will early. Guskov, however, remained calm and strategic, weathering the initial pressure while carefully timing his counters.

As the first round progressed, Guskov began to find his rhythm, using his sharp counterstriking to disrupt Krylov’s offensive flow. With under a minute remaining, Guskov unleashed a perfectly timed straight right hand that landed cleanly on Krylov, sending him crashing to the canvas. The impact was decisive, and Bogdan Guskov wasted no time following up with a relentless ground-and-pound assault, forcing the referee to stop the fight at 4:18 of the opening round.

This emphatic first-round TKO marked Guskov’s fourth consecutive UFC victory and firmly established him as a rising contender in the light heavyweight division. His ability to remain composed under pressure and capitalize on his opponent’s openings showcased a level of maturity and skill that could propel him into the top 10 rankings soon. Guskov’s performance highlighted his evolution into a dangerous and efficient finisher capable of ending fights swiftly.

For Krylov, the loss was a tough setback, marking his second straight defeat by stoppage and raising questions about his durability and future in the division. Despite his early aggression, Nikita Krylov was unable to adjust to Guskov’s timing and power, which ultimately ended the bout much earlier than expected. This fight could represent a pivotal moment for Krylov as he looks to reassess and rebuild after a challenging period in his career.