UFC Paris was a night to remember, filled with thrilling knockouts and emotional moments. The biggest talking point came when Paul Craig, Scotland’s proud light heavyweight, announced his retirement after a devastating KO loss to Modestas Bukauskas. While the main event between Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho kept fans on edge, it was Craig’s emotional farewell that left the deepest mark.
UFC Paris: A Night of High Stakes
The French capital played host to an electric night of fights. UFC Paris once again proved why it holds global significance, giving fans the chance to witness both rising stars and seasoned warriors compete at the highest level. Headlining the card were middleweight contenders Imavov and Borralho, both determined to climb the rankings. But the co-main event drew just as much attention, with Paul Craig facing Bukauskas in a fight that carried enormous personal and professional stakes.
Paul Craig’s Emotional Exit
After years of battles inside the Octagon, Craig’s journey came to a heart-breaking end. With just one second left in the first round, Bukauskas landed a crushing elbow that left Craig unconscious. Once revived, Craig removed his gloves — the universal sign of retirement — before addressing the crowd with a powerful farewell: “Guys, thank you so much for the memories… this sport, the young eat the old and I’m old. Thank you for the memories.”
Craig’s career included many memorable highs, such as his famous submission win over Magomed Ankalaev, now the light heavyweight champion. His departure serves as a sobering reminder of the brutal nature of MMA and the unforgiving clock every fighter faces.
Reactions From the MMA World
The MMA community quickly responded with tributes and respect for Craig’s career. Joe Rogan, speaking on his YouTube channel, summed up the feelings of many fans and analysts: “Paul Craig just retired? Yeah, that’s enough. I mean, that guy has been knocked out a bunch of times… but he has a f—— submission victory over the champion Magomed Ankalaev.”
Fans flooded social media with gratitude, highlighting Craig’s grit, his memorable moments, and his unwavering spirit inside the cage. For many, Craig wasn’t just a fighter — he was an inspiration who proved that heart and resilience can carry you to the biggest stages.
The Future of Light Heavyweight
With Craig stepping away, the light heavyweight division is wide open for new contenders. Bukauskas’s fourth consecutive victory puts him firmly on the map, signalling a shift towards younger, hungry fighters ready to climb the rankings. As the sport evolves with faster, more well-rounded athletes, the division faces an exciting but unpredictable future.
Certainly, Craig’s exit leaves a gap — not just in rankings, but in spirit. Yet his story will live on as a reminder of the sacrifices fighters make in pursuit of greatness.
Key Details
- Event: UFC Paris Fight Night, 6 September 2025
- Main Event: Nassourdine Imavov vs. Caio Borralho
- Paul Craig’s Opponent: Modestas Bukauskas
- Result: Craig knocked out in Round 1
- Retirement: Craig removed his gloves and confirmed his exit post-fight
- Notable Career Highlight: Submission win over Magomed Ankalaev
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Paul Craig at UFC Paris?
Paul Craig was knocked out by Modestas Bukauskas in the first round. Following the loss, he retired from MMA inside the Octagon.
What are the highlights of Paul Craig’s career?
Craig was a top 15 light heavyweight, best known for his submission victory over Magomed Ankalaev, who is now UFC champion.
How did Joe Rogan react to Craig’s retirement?
Joe Rogan commented on his YouTube channel, expressing respect for Craig’s achievements while acknowledging the physical toll his career had taken.
Who headlined UFC Paris?
The main event featured Nassourdine Imavov vs. Caio Borralho in a middleweight contender’s bout.
What’s next for the light heavyweight division?
With Craig retired, fighters like Modestas Bukauskas are seizing the spotlight. His win solidifies him as a rising contender in the 205-pound division.
