Modestas Bukauskas Retires Paul Craig with Buzzer-Beating
Bukauskas Delivers Violent Finish in Final Second of Round 1
On September 6, 2025, inside the Accor Arena in Paris, Modestas Bukauskas delivered one of the most brutal finishes of the year, knocking out Scottish veteran Paul Craig with a vicious elbow at the 5:00 mark of Round 1. The light heavyweight bout was part of the main card at UFC Paris, and Bukauskas’ buzzer-beating strike not only earned him the win—it sent Craig into retirement.
The Fight: Clinch War Turns into Hellbow Horror
Bukauskas was willing to engage Craig in the clinch early, absorbing knees and controlling posture. As the round progressed, he reversed position and took Craig to the mat, landing short elbows from top control. With just seconds remaining, Bukauskas unleashed a devastating elbow that flattened Craig and opened a deep cut.
The horn sounded, but Craig was unable to return to his feet. Referee intervention confirmed the stoppage, and Bukauskas was awarded the KO victory at 5:00 of Round 1.
“Modestas Bukauskas delivered a buzzer-beating knockout finish against Paul Craig at UFC Paris… an absolutely hellacious elbow that busted him open just as the horn went off” — LowKick MMA
Craig’s Farewell: A Warrior’s Exit
Following the official decision, Craig removed his gloves and left them in the center of the Octagon, signaling his retirement. The 37-year-old walks away with a UFC record of 9-10-1, including stoppage wins over Jamahal Hill, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, and Magomed Ankalaev.
“This sport, the young eat the old, and I’m old. Thank you for the memories,” Craig told the Paris crowd.
Bukauskas Surging in Second UFC Stint
With this win, Bukauskas improves to 6-1 in his second run with the UFC, earning stoppages in three of his last four fights. The Lithuanian striker has now positioned himself for a shot at a Top 15 opponent and continues to build momentum in the light heavyweight division.
His ability to finish fights in dramatic fashion, combined with his clinch control and ground-and-pound, makes him one of the most dangerous rising contenders in the division.
What’s Next for Bukauskas?
Bukauskas called for a ranked opponent in his post-fight interview, and with Craig’s name added to his resume, the UFC may oblige. A matchup against veterans like Dustin Jacoby or Khalil Rountree Jr. could be on the horizon as Bukauskas looks to break into the top tier of the division.
For full fight footage and post-event coverage, visit MMA Junkie’s recap and Yahoo Sports’ highlights.
