Can This Light Heavyweight Grappling Ace Revive His Career?

Paul Craig Smarting From Three-Fight Losing Streak

In 2022, Paul Craig was known as one of the best 205-lb competitors on the planet, having compiled a stellar six-bout unbeaten run, taking notable wins over divisional standouts such as Maurício Rua, future champion Jamahal Hill and Nikita Krylov. However, after dropping two fights in a row to Volkan Oezdemir and Johnny Walker, being finished by first round knockout against the latter, the Scotsman made the decision to drop down to middleweight in 2023. 

The move to 185-lb would be a first for Paul Craig, as “Bearjew” had previously fought as a light heavyweight for the entirety of his professional career up until that point. He managed to make a splendid impression in his categorical debut by starching André Muniz in the second round, earning himself a Performance of the Night bonus.

Sadly, his success at middleweight stopped here, with Craig going on to lose his next three contests in a row Brendan Allen, Caio Borralho and Bo Nickal.

Paul Craig’s Atlanta Tilt vs. Rodolfo Bellato Ends In No-Contest

Following this disastrous stint, he then made his way back to light heavyweight at UFC on ESPN 69, where he faced rising Brazilian prospect Rodolfo Bellato. The match wound up ending in controversy, though, as Craig would strike Bellato with an illegal upkick to the face, rendering him unable to continue fighting, much to the chagrin of the audience.  

Paul Craig Turns Attention to Modestas Bukauskas Saturday in UFC Paris

Hoping to get back into the winner’s circle for the first time in over two years, Craig locks horns with Lithuanian striker Modestas Bukauskas.

Making his first go in the promotion back in 2020, Bukauskas compiled an overly underwhelming UFC record of 1-4. His setbacks in the company came against some of the top athletes in the division in Jimmy Crute, Michał Oleksiejczuk and Khalil Rountree Jr. Subsequently released from his contract, “The Baltic Gladiator” returned to the regional scene and won two fights back-to-back in his old stomping ground, Cage Warriors, scoring their light heavyweight strap in the process.

This success brought Bukauskas back into the UFC in 2023. Since then, the 31-year old has gone 5-1 in his past six Octagon appearances, most recently competing at UFC 315, besting Moldovan veteran Ion Cutelaba by split decision.