UFC Fight Night 258: Imavov vs. Borralho takes place on September 6, 2025, at the Accor Arena in Paris, France. On the main card, a light heavyweight clash pits Lithuania’s Modestas Bukauskas against Scotland’s Paul Craig. Both fighters are proven veterans with extensive experience, and this bout could determine who cements themselves as a fixture in the top tier of the division.

Modestas Bukauskas

Modestas Bukauskas (18–6) enters the Paris card on a strong run, having won three consecutive fights in the UFC. Known for his powerful striking and ability to mix in submissions when needed, the Lithuanian-British contender has shown steady improvement since returning to the promotion. A two-time Cage Warriors Light Heavyweight Champion, Bukauskas brings championship pedigree and a willingness to push the pace.

In 2025, he picked up wins over Ion Cuțelaba and Raffael Cerqueira, showcasing both durability and knockout power. His recent submission victory over Marcin Prachnio further underlined his growing versatility. With youth, athleticism, and confidence on his side, Bukauskas looks to break through against one of the division’s most experienced names.

Modestas Bukauskas – Last 5 Fights:

1. Win vs. Ion Cuțelaba – Decision (Split) – UFC 315, May 10, 2025
2. Win vs. Raffael Cerqueira – KO (Punches) – UFC FN, February 22, 2025
3. Win vs. Marcin Prachnio – Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) – UFC 304, July 27, 2024
4. Loss vs. Vitor Petrino – KO (Punch) – UFC FN, November 4, 2023
5. Win vs. Zac Pauga – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC on ESPN, June 17, 2023

Bukauskas’ key to victory will be keeping the fight standing and utilizing his reach advantage. By staying composed and avoiding prolonged grappling exchanges, he can maximize his knockout power against Craig.

Paul Craig

Paul Craig (17–9–1, 1 NC) remains one of the most dangerous submission specialists in the light heavyweight division. With 13 of his 17 victories coming by submission, the Scottish veteran is always a threat on the ground. A former BAMMA World Light Heavyweight Champion, Craig has fought many of the top names in both the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions, earning a reputation as a gritty, opportunistic fighter.

Although Craig has endured a difficult stretch in recent years, including losses to Bo Nickal and Caio Borralho, he remains a live threat against any opponent who underestimates his grappling. His 2023 TKO win over André Muniz in his middleweight debut proved his toughness and finishing instincts remain intact. Returning to light heavyweight, Craig looks to reassert himself with another signature submission victory.

Paul Craig – Last 5 Fights:

1. NC vs. Rodolfo Bellato – NC (Illegal Upkick) – UFC on ESPN, June 14, 2025
2. Loss vs. Bo Nickal – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC 309, November 16, 2024
3. Loss vs. Caio Borralho – KO (Punches) – UFC 301, May 4, 2024
4. Loss vs. Brendan Allen – Submission (RNC) – UFC FN, November 18, 2023
5. Win vs. André Muniz – TKO (Elbows) – UFC FN, July 22, 2023

Craig’s clearest path to victory is dragging Bukauskas into grappling exchanges, hunting for submissions, and capitalizing on scrambles. His experience and ability to finish fights from his back make him dangerous even when under pressure.

Fight Breakdown

This is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup. Bukauskas holds the edge in striking, speed, and recent momentum, while Craig’s submission game is among the best in the division. If Bukauskas can keep the fight on the feet, his knockout potential could overwhelm Craig. However, if Craig is able to close distance and force grappling exchanges, the momentum could swing in his favor.

The X-factor is Bukauskas’ takedown defense. If he can stuff Craig’s attempts and maintain control of the striking range, he will likely walk away with a statement victory. Conversely, one mistake on the mat could quickly tilt the fight toward Craig.

Prediction

Bukauskas’ current form and ability to finish fights in multiple ways make him the safer pick. Craig is always dangerous, but Bukauskas’ athleticism, youth, and composure should allow him to dictate the fight.

Prediction: Modestas Bukauskas def. Paul Craig via KO (Punches) – Round 2

A victory for Bukauskas would further solidify his standing as a contender in the light heavyweight division, while Craig looks to pull off another trademark upset with his submission skills.