Dominick Reyes proved his resurgence with a spectacular knockout, defeating Nikita Krylov in the first fight of the main card at UFC 314.
After a series of losses, the former two-time title challenger has now secured three consecutive finishes, with this latest win being potentially the most impressive. Despite Krylov`s aggressive start, Reyes remained composed and landed a sharp jab early on.
Repeating the initial exchange, Krylov charged forward again, but this time Reyes expertly stepped back and unleashed a powerful left hand that connected perfectly. Krylov collapsed to the mat, immediately unconscious, as Reyes celebrated his victory. The fight concluded at 2:24 of the first round.
“I’m not back, I’m better,” Reyes declared. “Fighting Nikita Krylov is a serious challenge. He’s a tough competitor, one of the most difficult in the division, and I won. I’m still a contender. I’ll be in the top 10 now. One more fight and then for the title, let’s go.”
The fight was defined by two key moments with similar outcomes. Krylov initiated aggressively from the beginning, and Reyes countered like a matador. The initial right-hand jab stunned Krylov, but he recovered without further damage.
Undeterred, Krylov continued his strategy, but it backfired even more dramatically the second time. As he advanced, Reyes unleashed the decisive straight left, ending the fight. This knockout marks Reyes’ third consecutive win, all finishes, placing him firmly back in contention in the 205-pound division.
The future is uncertain, but Reyes has re-established himself in the rankings, hoping to contend for the title again soon.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely