In a bold return to light heavyweight, Scotland’s Paul Craig is set to face rising star Modestas Bukauskas this Saturday at UFC Paris, as he looks to snap a troubling three-fight losing streak. With ambitions of securing his first title shot, Craig insists he has a “queue jump pass” ready to catapult him back into contention—believing that a victory over Bukauskas could reignite his journey towards UFC gold. For Craig, this bout is make-or-break.
Paul Craig’s Journey Back to Light Heavyweight
After a brief and difficult spell at middleweight, Craig returns to his natural weight class at 205 lbs. Known as ‘Bearjew’, he endured three consecutive defeats and a controversial no contest against Rodolfo Bellato. Despite the setbacks, Craig feels there is unfinished business in the light heavyweight division, where he once stood as a ranked contender.
His comeback fight against Bukauskas, who is enjoying a surge in momentum, is critical not only for Craig’s ambitions of reclaiming a top 10 spot but also for his future with the UFC. A loss could further threaten his position, but Craig remains determined to put recent struggles behind him and return stronger than ever.
Craig’s Strategic Mindset and Title Aspirations
In the build-up to UFC Paris, Craig expressed both optimism and determination. “I believe I have a queue jump pass just waiting in my back pocket,” he explained, signalling his belief that a big win can leapfrog him back towards the elite of the division. His target? To get back into the mix with fighters like Magomed Ankalaev and eventually compete for the title.
Craig has made it clear that a few solid wins could put him right back in the spotlight. But he’s realistic too—understanding that MMA is unpredictable, and one mistake can change the course of a career overnight.
The Stakes Against Modestas Bukauskas
For Craig, this fight isn’t just another appearance—it could define the future of his UFC career. Bukauskas, riding a three-fight win streak with two emphatic finishes, is no easy opponent. His recent highlight-reel victories over Marcin Prachnio and Raffael Cerqueira have marked him as one of the division’s most dangerous rising stars.
With UFC Paris shining the spotlight on both men, Craig knows a win would restore his credibility and open the door to bigger opportunities. For Bukauskas, the bout represents his chance to solidify himself as a serious title contender. Both fighters step into the octagon with high stakes, knowing their careers could shift dramatically depending on the outcome.
The Rise of Modestas Bukauskas
Modestas Bukauskas has overcome career hurdles to position himself as a legitimate threat in the light heavyweight rankings. His aggressive style, backed by finishing power, makes him a dangerous test for Craig. A win over a seasoned opponent like Craig would not only boost his ranking but also strengthen his case for a future title eliminator bout.
As he prepares for UFC Paris, Bukauskas will be aiming to capitalise on Craig’s recent struggles, while Craig looks to prove that experience and resilience still count for something in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions.
Conclusion: A Career-Defining Fight
As the UFC makes its return to Paris, the clash between Paul Craig and Modestas Bukauskas stands out as a pivotal moment for both men. Craig enters determined to silence doubts and rebuild his legacy, while Bukauskas eyes his chance to continue a rapid rise. With the stakes so high, this matchup promises fireworks and could have major implications for the light heavyweight title picture.
Key Points
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Paul Craig’s Next Fight | Curtains lifted on Craid vs Bukauskas at UFC Paris, 9 September 2025 |
| Recent Performance | Craiig is on a three-fight losing streak plus a no-contest |
| Importance | A win is vital to keep Craig’s UFC career and title hopes alive |
| Craig’s Expectations | Believes a few wins could propel him back into the top 10 and title contention |
| Bukauskas’s Form | On a three-fight win streak, including two finishes in 2025 |
| Craig’s History | Previously ranked number nine at light heavyweight |
| Title Aspirations | Focused on regaining contender status and aiming for gold |
Frequently Asked Questions
What division is Paul Craig fighting in now?
Craig is returning to the light heavyweight division after a short spell at middleweight.
Who is Paul Craig fighting at UFC Paris?
He will face Modestas Bukauskas, a rising contender currently on a three-fight win streak.
What does Craig mean by having a “queue jump pass”?
He believes that a strong win streak could allow him to skip ahead in the rankings and fast-track towards a title shot.
What is at stake for Craig in this fight?
A loss could further harm his UFC standing, but a win would reignite his career and title ambitions.
How is Modestas Bukauskas performing recently?
Bukauskas has picked up three wins in a row, with two finishes, making him a dangerous and confident opponent.
