Nikita Krylov is looking forward to seeing the Russian flag displayed beside his name when he enters the octagon to face Dominick Reyes at UFC 314.
The light heavyweight fighter is making his comeback after a two-year absence this Saturday. In his previous fight in 2023, the Russian flag was noticeably absent from his profile. Krylov addressed this situation at the UFC 314 media day on Wednesday, clarifying the reasons for the uncertainty surrounding his national representation in his last fight.
“Yes, I discussed it with the UFC, even before the last two events, asking to list Kislovodsk, Russia, as my fighting location,” Krylov stated. “I have been residing there for several years now, and I believe it is now my honor to represent them.”
Previously, Krylov lived in Ukraine and competed representing Donetsk, a region that came under Russian control during the ongoing conflict that began in 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the annexation of four regions, including Donetsk, although the conflict over the area remains active.
Krylov believes this situation caused the confusion during his last UFC appearance. However, he currently lives and is based solely in Russia, and he intends to represent Russia this Saturday.
“The reason there was no flag next to my name in recent events is because I lived most of my life in Donetsk, Ukraine,” Krylov explained. “Donetsk is a city whose belonging is still under debate, with differing opinions.”
“Currently, I believe it is appropriate for me to have Russia next to my name. I am proud to represent Russia.”
Despite his time away, Krylov returns to the UFC with a three-fight winning streak. His fight against Reyes offers a chance to quickly re-establish himself in the competitive light heavyweight division.
A victory against Reyes, in the opening fight of the pay-per-view main card on Saturday, could position Krylov for a potential title shot.
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