Nikita Krylov vs Ryan Spann 2/25/2023 Expert Picks, Tips and Game Analysis
UFC Vegas 70 is gearing up to deliver another thrilling night of action from the APEX facility in Nevada, USA on February 25th, and the promotion has officially announced the eagerly anticipated main event. In a clash of top-ranked light heavyweights, #6 ranked Nikita Krylov will take on #9 ranked Ryan Spann in a five-round showdown.
According to multiple sources familiar with the matter, MMA Fighting has confirmed that both fighters have earned a spot on the MMA Fighting Global Rankings, with Krylov currently holding the #11 position, while Spann is ranked #12. Krylov comes into this bout on the back of two consecutive victories, including a unanimous decision over former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir in his latest appearance at UFC 280 in October.
Looking back at Krylov’s past five fights, he has a respectable record of 3-2, having secured wins against Alexander Gustafsson and Johnny Walker in addition to his most recent victory. With these impressive performances under his belt, Krylov is undoubtedly a dangerous opponent and will be looking to continue his winning streak against Spann.
Nikita Krylov vs Ryan Spann 2/25/2023 Expert Picks, Tips and Game Analysis
The light heavyweight division is set to sizzle as Nikita Krylov and Ryan Spann, both ranked in the top 10, prepare to clash in the octagon. Krylov has been in the UFC before, amassing nine finishes in nine matches, and in his recent stint, he has gone to decisions and finishes equally. Spann has ended seven of his last eight matches early, with two submissions and three knockouts.
The pair’s similar rankings and recent two-fight winning streaks make this match-up perfect. In 2022, Spann submitted Ion Cutelaba and then stunned Dominick Reyes with a powerful jab. Krylov also had a successful 2022, scoring a quick knockout over Alexander Gustafsson and securing a unanimous decision win over Volkan Oezdemir. With all of this in mind, their headlining bout at UFC Vegas 70 on February 25 is sure to be a must-see for fight fans.
The stakes are high for Spann and Krylov at UFC Vegas 70, as a win could potentially catapult them to a title shot in the 205-pound division. With Jiří Procházka sidelined and Glover Teixeira retired, the opportunity to make a title run is ripe for the taking. The pressure to perform on such a big stage should only ignite the fire in these already passionate fighters, and the potential for a classic showdown is enticing. However, the five-round fight could test the gas tanks of both men.
While both fighters possess knockout power, they are more likely to attempt a submission in transition than to engage in a grappling battle. Krylov has the advantage if the fight turns into a chaotic ground battle due to his ability to reverse positions and superior cardio. But, the fight is more likely to stay on the feet, where Spann’s four-inch reach advantage could come into play. However, Krylov may have more paths to victory, especially if he can maneuver inside Spann’s reach, given Spann’s questionable chin.
Nikita Krylov vs Ryan Spann. This bout should be a difficult one to call and it’s probably not going to last up to the 5th round where the match will go in the favor of “ The Miner “.
UFC Fight Night 220 – Krylov vs. Spann
February 25, 2023, 7:00 PM EST | UFC Apex
The Pick: Krylov via second-round KO
