Paris, France is set to host a critical collision in the light heavyweight division as veteran submission specialist Paul Craig prepares to face the surging Modestas Bukauskas. The fight, recently announced for the UFC event on September 6th at the Accor Arena, carries significant weight for both competitors, though the stakes appear particularly high for the Scottish `Bearjew`.
For Paul Craig (17-9-1, 1 NC), this bout is more than just another entry on his record; it`s arguably the most vital fight of his career. Once known for pulling off improbable, last-second submission victories against top contenders – including finishes over former and future champions like Jamahal Hill and Mauricio Rua, and a memorable stoppage of Magomed Ankalaev – Craig has hit a substantial skid. His record in the UFC currently sits at an even 9-9-1 (1 NC), and more concerningly, he has secured only one win in his last seven outings dating back to 2022. This rough patch includes a four-fight winless streak leading into the Paris card.
The recent memory of his June bout against Rodolfo Bellato adds another layer of frustration. That fight ended in a controversial no-contest after Craig landed an illegal upkick, a situation compounded by debate over Bellato`s reaction to the foul. Regardless of the nuances of the rules or any perceived embellishment, the outcome meant Craig failed to secure the win he desperately needed, extending his difficult period.
Standing across the octagon will be Modestas Bukauskas (18-6), a fighter on a completely different trajectory. The two-time Cage Warriors champion has successfully navigated his return to the UFC, putting together an impressive 5-1 record in his second stint with the promotion. Currently riding a three-fight win streak, the `Baltic Gladiator` is actively rebuilding his reputation and climbing the light heavyweight ranks. For Bukauskas, a victory over a name like Paul Craig, despite the veteran`s recent struggles, represents a significant step up and a potential opportunity to be recognized as a dark horse contender in the division.
This matchup presents a classic veteran-versus-momentum narrative. Craig, fighting with his back against the wall and potentially his UFC tenure on the line, brings a high-level, unpredictable ground game capable of snatching a finish from anywhere. Bukauskas, meanwhile, will look to utilize his resurgent form and all-around skills to continue his ascent. The pressure is immense on both sides: Craig needs a definitive win to halt his slide and prove he still belongs among the elite, while Bukauskas aims to use Craig`s name as a launching pad into the upper echelon.
Added to a card headlined by middleweight contenders Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho, the Craig vs. Bukauskas light heavyweight clash ensures that the UFC`s return to Paris will feature not only top-tier talent but also compelling storylines and potentially career-defining moments.
