NEW ORLEANS \u2013 Nikolay Veretennikov can breathe a little easier following the conclusion of UFC 318.<\/p>\n
Veretennikov (13-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) entered Saturday’s UFC pay-per-view event winless in the promotion, having lost his first two fights. A potential 0-3 run could’ve signaled the end of his UFC career, but he got his hand raised against Argentina’s Francisco Prado, whom he defeated by split decision.<\/p>\n
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“I had a lot of pressure going into this fight,” Veretennikov said at his post-fight news conference. “It was very hard for me, but I’m here, and I would like to show everyone I’m not here for nothing. I’m here for a reason.<\/p>\n
The split decision was disputed by many observers. According to MMA Decisions, nine out of the 12 media members who scored the fight had it 29-28 for Prado (12-4 MMA, 1-4 UFC). Veretennikov knows it was a tough fight but felt confident that he had done enough to earn the victory.<\/p>\n
“I was sure I won this fight,” Veretennikov explained. “I punched him hard. I did knock him down twice, and he was dizzy. He took me down twice, that was good, but I’m sure I won this fight. That’s for sure.”<\/p>\n
Overall, Veretennikov is over the moon to not only save his UFC career but to also log in his first UFC win ever. It’s a special moment for Veretennikov.<\/p>\n
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“I feel so great after this fight,” Veretennikov said. “That was my first win in the UFC. I’m lucky. I’m lucky to be here, so I love it.”<\/p>\n