UFC 324 – Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas: Preview & Betting Tips

The upcoming light heavyweight clash between Nikita Krylov and Modestas Bukauskas presents a fascinating bout at UFC 324.

Krylov (30-11) has long been one of the most entertaining fighters in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. Few fighters embrace risk the way Krylov does. He fights aggressively, hunts finishes, and rarely shows interest in grinding out safe decisions.

Bukauskas (19-6) enters this fight as a very different kind of fighter. Where Krylov thrives in disorder, Bukauskas prefers structure. He fights behind a disciplined striking game, using range, movement, and timing to control exchanges.

Tale of the Tape 

Nikita Krylov – Odds 2.25 

Record: 30-11

Age: 33

Height: 6ft3

Reach: 77”

Weight: Light-heavyweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Modestas Bukauskas – Odds 1.67 

Record: 19-6

Age: 31

Height: 6ft3

Reach: 76”

Weight: Light-heavyweight 

Stance: Switch 

Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas: Analysis

At his best, Krylov is a nightmare matchup. He throws with power, mixes in opportunistic grappling, and has a knack for overwhelming opponents before they can establish a rhythm. His submissions often come from scrambles rather than set positions, which makes him particularly dangerous against fighters who panic under pressure. However, his aggressive style also leaves openings, and when fights extend beyond the early chaos, his composure can waver.

For Bukauskas, he often exchanges unnecessarily, and he’s content to win rounds by staying clean and efficient. Against a fighter like Krylov, that patience could be crucial. If Bukauskas can survive the early storm and avoid getting dragged into wild scrambles, he has the tools to frustrate Krylov and take over as the fight settles.

The early minutes are likely to define the tone of the bout. Krylov will almost certainly come out fast, looking to test Bukauskas’ reactions and defensive awareness. Whilst Bukauskas will look to be patient and counter Krylov’s entries.

Krylov vs Bukauskas: Prediction & Betting Tips

If Bukauskas weathers that initial surge, however, the dynamic could shift significantly. Krylov has shown in past fights that when his early attacks don’t produce results, his defence can loosen. That’s where Bukauskas’ straight punches, kicks, and measured combinations could begin to find a home. Over time, cleaner technique and better energy management could tilt the fight in Bukauskas’ favour.

Krylov offers danger at all times and can finish the fight suddenly. Bukauskas offers steadiness, patience, and a growing confidence that suggests he belongs at this level. This one is a very tough fight to call and I believe the bookies are right to slightly lean in Bukauskas’ favour.

Again, this could be another fight where betting in-play could offer much more value after the first round is over. However, I’m also leaning Modestas Bukauskas moneyline at odds of 1.67 .