MMA Match Preview: Nikita Krylov (11-8-0) vs. Bogdan Guskov (17-3-0)

Two ranked finishers collide in a volatile matchup as #10 Nikita “The Miner” Krylov takes on #13 Bogdan Guskov in the opening bout of the UFC on ABC 9: Whittaker vs. de Ridder main card at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Both men are known for their aggression and finishing instincts, making this a potential one-round war.

Tale of the Tape

Attribute	Nikita Krylov	Bogdan Guskov
Age	33	32
Height	6′3″	6′3″
Reach	77.5″	76″
Record (MMA)	30-10-0	17-3-0
UFC Record	11-8	3-1
Style	Kickboxing / Grappling	Power Striker / Brawler
Finish Rate	93%	100%

Nikita Krylov – The Veteran Technician

Strengths:

Well-rounded skill set with 28 finishes (12 KO, 16 Sub)

Strong leg kicks and counter-striking

Solid takedown game and submission setups

Recent Form:

KO loss to Dominick Reyes (April 2025)

Wins over Ryan Spann, Alexander Gustafsson, Volkan Oezdemir

Game Plan:

Use movement and range to avoid early chaos

Mix striking with takedowns to wear down Guskov

Exploit Guskov’s wrestling vulnerability

Krylov’s experience against elite competition gives him a strategic edge. He’s faced legends like Glover Teixeira, Jan Blachowicz, and Magomed Ankalaev, and his ability to adapt mid-fight is a key asset.

Bogdan Guskov – The Uzbek Finisher

Strengths:

Explosive power with all 17 wins by finish

Aggressive pressure and wild exchanges

Opportunistic submissions (guillotine specialist)

Recent Form:

Submission win over Billy Elekana

KO wins over Zac Pauga and Ryan Spann

Loss in UFC debut to Volkan Oezdemir (Sub)

Game Plan:

Push pace early and test Krylov’s chin

Use teep kicks and looping hooks to close distance

Look for scrambles and quick finishes

Guskov is a fan-friendly fighter who thrives in chaos. His chin and power make him a live underdog, and he’s earned two performance bonuses in his last three fights.

Key Dynamics

Experience vs. Momentum: Krylov’s 40-fight résumé vs. Guskov’s 3-fight UFC win streak

Grappling vs. Chaos: Krylov’s control vs. Guskov’s wild exchanges

Durability vs. Power: Krylov’s tested chin vs. Guskov’s finishing rate