Imagine witnessing a fight where a rising star shatters the hopes of a seasoned veteran with a single, jaw-dropping knockout. That’s exactly what happened at UFC Vegas 113 when Nikolay Veretennikov delivered a standing knockout that left Niko Price—and the audience—in stunned silence. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a calculated victory or a moment of sheer luck? Let’s dive in.
In a preliminary welterweight bout that no one saw coming, Veretennikov wasted no time asserting dominance. With precision and ferocity, he cornered Price against the fence, unleashing a devastating right hand that set the stage for the inevitable. What followed was a textbook display of striking mastery: a hard knee to the body and a series of pinpoint punches that rendered Price completely limp. Referee Chris Tognoni had no choice but to step in at the 1:42 mark of the first round, officially ending the bout.
And this is the part most people miss: Veretennikov’s victory wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Coming off a 1-3 slump, this knockout marked his first in nearly two years, bringing his UFC record to 2-3. For Veretennikov (14-7), this was more than a rebound; it was a reminder of his potential in a division packed with talent.
On the flip side, Price (16-10, 2 NC) now faces a harsh reality. This marks his third consecutive loss and fifth in his last six fights. Even more concerning? Four of those losses ended before the final bell, and this knockout adds to the six times the 36-year-old has been stopped in his pro career. Here’s the question that’s sparking debate: Is Price’s time in the spotlight fading, or can he still turn things around? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
For now, Veretennikov’s explosive finish is a highlight reel moment that will be replayed for years. Watch the knockout below and decide for yourself—was this a game-changer or just another fight? One thing’s for sure: the welterweight division just got a whole lot more interesting.
