Nikita Krylov put Fabio Maldonado to sleep with a stiff right hook to claim the Fight Night Global light heavyweight title Saturday night in Rostov-on-Don, Russia.
The FNG 87 co-main event was nearly called off after 14 seconds when Maldonado ate a swift low kick from the Russian. The Brazilian lay on his back for a number of minutes after the low blow before getting back to his feet, willing to continue.
Maldonado stayed on the outside as Krylov used his distance to pepper him with shots. After failing on a body lock takedown in the second round, he threw out his right hand which rendered Maldonado unconscious on impact.
With the KO of his fellow UFC veteran, Krylov improved to 4-0 since leaving the promotion in 2016. He’s 24-5 overall, with all 24 victories coming by way of finish. Maldonado (24-12) had a two-fight win streak snapped.
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