One of the most intriguing matchups at UFC 314 features a pivotal light heavyweight clash between #8-ranked Nikita Krylov and #11-ranked Dominick Reyes. Both fighters are coming off solid wins and are eager to climb the ranks in a division that's seen considerable movement in recent years. This bout pits Krylov’s dangerous grappling and submission arsenal against Reyes’ elite striking and knockout power, setting the stage for a classic stylistic battle.

Nikita Krylov enters the octagon on a three-fight win streak, most recently submitting Ryan Spann via triangle choke in the first round at UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Dvalishvili (March 2023). Before that, he earned a unanimous decision over Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 280 and knocked out Alexander Gustafsson in the first round - a performance that earned him a "Performance of the Night" bonus. Krylov’s recent resurgence showcases his evolution into a more composed and tactical fighter, capable of blending striking with a dangerous submission game. However, he has been susceptible to submissions himself, and three of his last five UFC losses have come via choke.

On the other hand, Dominick Reyes has rebounded from a tough stretch in his career with two emphatic knockout victories. He most recently stopped Anthony Smith in the second round at UFC 310 (December 2024) and knocked out Dustin Jacoby in the first round earlier that year. Prior to that, Reyes endured a brutal three-fight losing streak, suffering knockout losses to Ryan Spann and Jiří Procházka, and a TKO defeat to Jan Błachowicz in a title fight. His controversial loss to Jon Jones in early 2020 is still remembered as one of the closest challenges to Jones' title reign. Reyes' recent performances suggest he’s regained confidence, sharpening his timing and utilizing his reach and power effectively.

Last 5 Fights – Nikita Krylov:

1. ✅ Win – Ryan Spann | Submission (triangle choke) | UFC Fight Night | Mar 11, 2023
2. ✅ Win – Volkan Oezdemir | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 280 | Oct 22, 2022
3. ✅ Win – Alexander Gustafsson | KO (punches) | UFC Fight Night | Jul 23, 2022
4. ❌ Loss – Paul Craig | Submission (triangle choke) | UFC Fight Night | Mar 19, 2022
5. ❌ Loss – Magomed Ankalaev | Decision (unanimous) | UFC Fight Night | Feb 27, 2021

Last 5 Fights – Dominick Reyes:

1. ✅ Win – Anthony Smith | TKO (elbows and punches) | UFC 310 | Dec 7, 2024
2. ✅ Win – Dustin Jacoby | KO (punches) | UFC on ESPN | Jun 8, 2024
3. ❌ Loss – Ryan Spann | KO (punches) | UFC 281 | Nov 12, 2022
4. ❌ Loss – Jiří Procházka | KO (spinning back elbow) | UFC on ESPN | May 1, 2021
5. ❌ Loss – Jan Błachowicz | TKO (punches) | UFC 253 | Sep 27, 2020

Prediction:

This bout could very well be determined by which fighter is able to dictate where the fight takes place. If Reyes can maintain distance and utilize his striking, especially his powerful left hand, he could catch Krylov early and score another knockout. However, if Krylov can close the distance, engage in grappling exchanges, and bring the fight to the mat, his submission prowess could overwhelm Reyes, who has never been submitted but has shown holes in his ground game. Given Krylov’s recent form, versatility, and momentum, he might be able to weather the early storm and impose his will on the ground.

Nikita Krylov wins via Submission (Round 2)