UFC 324: Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas Preview & Prediction
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Experience meets ambition as Nikita Krylov faces Modestas Bukauskas on the UFC prelims.
Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas facts
What time are Nikita Krylov and Modestas Bukauskas expected to walk out?
Where is UFC 324? T-Mobile Arena, Nevada, USA
Where can I get tickets for UFC 324? Click here for the latest ticket information for UFC 324
What TV channel is UFC 324 on? UK – TNT Sports Box Office / USA – Not televised
Where can I stream UFC 324? UK – TNT Sports subscribers who have paid for the fight can stream the event online via the TNT Sports website and discovery+ / USA – Paramount+ & UFC Fight Pass
UFC 324: Gaethje vs Pimblett main card
Justin Gaethje vs Paddy Pimblett (Lightweight)
Sean O'Malley vs Song Yadong (Bantamweight)
Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs Derrick Lewis (Heavyweight)
Natalia Silva vs Rose Namajunas (Women’s Flyweight)
Arnold Allen vs Jean Silva (Featherweight)
UFC 324: Gaethje vs Pimblett prelims
Umar Nurmagomedov vs Deiveson Figueiredo (Bantamweight)
Ateba Gautier vs Andrey Pulyaev (Middleweight)
Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas (Light Heavyweight)
Alex Perez vs Charles Johnson (Flyweight)
Michael Johnson vs Alexander Hernandez (Lightweight)
Josh Hokit vs Denzel Freeman (Heavyweight)
Ricky Turcios vs Cameron Smotherman (Bantamweight)
Adam Fugitt vs Ty Miller (Welterweight)
Nikita Krylov: Battle-tested finisher still dangerous but increasingly volatile
Nikita Krylov (30-11-0) enters this preliminary bout as one of the most seasoned light heavyweights on the UFC roster. Representing Ukraine, Krylov has spent over a decade competing against elite-level opposition and remains one of the division’s most aggressive finishers. His résumé includes notable victories over Alexander Gustafsson, Volkan Oezdemir, Ovince Saint Preux and Johnny Walker, reflecting both his longevity and his willingness to take on the toughest challenges available.
Krylov’s style has always been high risk, high reward. He is dangerous both on the feet and on the mat, owning finishes by knockout and submission, often attacking relentlessly from the opening bell. However, that aggression has also led to inconsistency throughout his career. Against higher-calibre opposition, Krylov has struggled to maintain control and composure, with defensive lapses frequently costing him momentum. His recent loss to Bogdan Guskov highlighted that while he remains competitive, the margins against durable, disciplined opponents are becoming thinner.
Modestas Bukauskas: Powerful striker rebuilding momentum with growing composure
Modestas Bukauskas (19-6-0) steps into this matchup representing Lithuania, fighting out of the United Kingdom, and looking to continue stabilising his UFC run. A physically imposing light heavyweight with real knockout power, Bukauskas has long been viewed as a dangerous striker capable of changing fights with a single clean connection. Early setbacks in his UFC career, including a serious knee injury suffered against Khalil Rountree Jr, disrupted his momentum and stalled his development at a crucial stage.
Since returning, Bukauskas has shown clear signs of maturation. While still primarily a striker, he has become more measured in his approach, choosing his moments more carefully rather than relying purely on explosive offence. His recent performances suggest a fighter beginning to understand pacing, distance management and defensive responsibility at UFC level. Against a veteran known for chaotic exchanges and defensive openings, Bukauskas finds himself in a matchup that allows him to lean into his strengths without being forced to overextend.
Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas prediction
This fight shapes up as a clash between experience and composure. Krylov remains dangerous at all times, particularly if he can force scrambles or prolonged grappling exchanges. However, his tendency to engage recklessly and leave openings during striking exchanges creates opportunities for a disciplined opponent willing to stay patient and pick moments.
Bukauskas’ cleaner striking, physical strength and improving fight management give him a realistic path to victory, particularly if he can keep the fight standing and avoid extended ground sequences. Krylov’s long career and accumulated damage also factor into this matchup, especially against a fresher opponent who carries genuine power. If Bukauskas maintains discipline and avoids being drawn into unnecessary chaos, he has the tools to edge this contest.
Prediction: Modestas Bukauskas to win
