Dominick Reyes has definitively answered his critics with another impressive knockout, this time defeating Nikita Krylov in the first fight of the main card at UFC 314.
After a series of losses, Reyes, a former two-time title contender, has now achieved three consecutive finishes. This latest victory might be his most convincing yet. Despite Krylov`s aggressive start, Reyes remained composed. He initially stunned Krylov with a strong jab in an early exchange.
The fight-ending sequence mirrored the first. As Krylov advanced again, Reyes expertly stepped back and unleashed a knockout left hand that landed cleanly. Krylov collapsed to the mat, immediately unconscious. Reyes celebrated as the fight concluded at 2 minutes and 24 seconds of the first round.
“I’m not back, I’m better than ever,” Reyes declared. “Fighting Nikita Krylov is a serious challenge. He’s a tough opponent and one of the most difficult matchups in this division, and I won. I’m still a top contender. One more win and then a title shot, let’s go.”
The fight was defined by two key moments with similar outcomes. Krylov attacked aggressively from the beginning, while Reyes strategically countered. The initial right-hand jab shook Krylov, but he recovered without further damage.
Undeterred, Krylov continued his initial strategy, but it backfired even more dramatically the second time. As he moved forward, Reyes delivered the fight-ending straight left. This knockout marks Reyes’ third consecutive win, all by stoppages, re-establishing him as a significant force in the 205-pound division.
The future is uncertain, but Reyes has firmly re-established his position in the rankings, hoping to contend for the title once again soon.
