Light heavyweights Modestas Bukauskas and Nikita Krylov are expected to clash in a fight booked at a UFC event planned for Jan. 24, which takes place as part of the promotion’s new deal with Paramount
starting in 2026.
Multiple people with knowledge of the promotion’s plans confirmed the news to MMA Fighting on Tuesday with bout agreements issued for the fight. As of now there’s no location set for the event.
A winner of four fights in a row, Bukauskas has been making a steady climb up the ranks at 205 pounds with hopes that bigger and better competition is awaiting him. Most recently, Bukauskas dispatched Paul Craig with a first-round knockout at an event in Paris as he moved to 6-1 overall since returning to the UFC in 2023.
Bukauskas now takes on another known finisher in Krylov, who is looking to get back on track following back-to-back losses in his two most recent fights.
Recognized as one of the most exciting fighters at 205 pounds, Krylov put together an impressive three-fight win streak at 205 pounds but a long layoff was followed with consecutive losses to Dominick Reyes and Bogdan Guskov.
Now Krylov attempts to get back to his winning ways while facing Bukauskas in a matchup that should provide some fireworks when they meet in January.
As of now, the UFC hasn’t officially announced any events for 2026 but plans are in motion as the promotion prepares to kick off the new broadcast deal with Paramount in grand fashion.
