Nikolay Veretennikov vs Austin Vanderford: Predictions, Analysis, and Breakdown
The main event of the UFC Fight Card in the United States features Nikolay Veretennikov vs Austin Vanderford. It is set as the preliminary card under the 170 lbs (77.1 kg) weight class. Here’s what to know—and who might be a good bet.
Fighters Profiles and Strength
Nikolay Veretennikov
Nikolay Veretennikov has a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 2 losses. In his last five fights, he won three and lost two. His losses came against Aaron Jeffery (TKO via right hook and punches) and Gegard Mousasi (TKO via ground and pound). The loss to Mousasi cost him a shot at the Bellator MMA Middleweight Championship.
His most recent fight was on October 18, 2024, at LFA 194: Magomedov vs. Leyva, where he defeated Victor Romero by TKO (jab to ground strikes). He joined Bellator MMA in 2019 and fought seven times over three years. His first professional fight was a first-round submission win over Eric McConico via arm-triangle choke.
Austin Vanderford
Austin Vanderford is coming off a loss to Danny Barlow at UFC Fight Night by split decision. Before that, he claimed the vacant UFL Welterweight Championship by defeating Ashley Reece. He has held titles before. In 2021, he won the FFC Welterweight Championship against Anthony Ivy via knees to the body and punches. He joined Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) in 2017 and has fought three times, winning most by TKO. His current professional record stands at 12 wins and 5 losses.
SHOP: Ultimate T8 Boxing Gloves
What time is the fight?
The fight kicks off live at 6:00 pm. ET this Saturday.
Location: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, Washington, United States
How can I Watch It?
If you’re interested, you can watch it on ESPN 2 and TNT SPORTS Pay-per-view.
Statistical Matchup
| CATEGORY | NIKOLAY VERETENNIKOV | AUSTIN VANDERFORD |
| AGE | 34 | 35 |
| HEIGHT | 5’11” | 6’1″ |
| REACH | 74.0″ | 75.0″ |
| RECORD | 12-2-0 | 12-5-0 |
| FIGHTING FROM | Coconut Creek, Florida, United States | Orange County, California |
Final Prediction
Veretennikov will make his UFC debut and hopes to make a strong impression. He has never lost by decision or submission. Vanderford has some UFC experience, but his debut loss puts him in a similar position to Veretennikov. However, Vanderford has the advantage in height, reach, and total fight experience.
OVER 2.5 ROUNDS
NIKOLAY VERETENNIKOV TO WIN
NIKOLAY VERETENNIKOV TO WIN BY KNOCKOUT IN ROUND 3
READ MORE: Jonathan Haggerty Secures Victory In The Main-Event Of ONE 171
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