Nikolay Veretennikov stuns UFC crowd with knockout victory. [Image Source: CBSISTATIC]
Nikolay Veretennikov made an unforgettable impact at UFC Vegas 113 on Saturday, delivering a spectacular knockout against veteran Niko Price that electrified the crowd at the Apex. This impressive win, coupled with a $25,000 performance bonus, put Veretennikov firmly in the spotlight and energized his UFC career.
Fighter Praises New Bonus System and Reflects on Payment Structure
Veretennikov expressed appreciation for the UFC’s new bonus system during a post-fight interview with reporters, including Cageside Press. He highlighted how the updated structure motivates fighters to pursue finishes, stating,
“Of course it’s great. It’s a great structure that is now implemented. It’s motivating people and it’s good. All changes really are good,”
Veretennikov said through a translator.
He also acknowledged that while pursuing knockouts was not always the primary strategy, the potential for additional pay influenced fighters positively. Regarding the shift in compensation, he remarked,
“This is going to be a good change for pay that we get. I’m never complaining about the pay that we had before. We weren’t out there hunting a knockout. It wasn’t the game plan. We come out there, we do our job, and if bonus comes, great.”
Respect for Niko Price Highlights Sportsmanship and Shared History
Despite the emphatic victory, Veretennikov made clear that his connection with Price runs deep, emphasizing respect and gratitude rather than celebration at his opponent’s expense. He detailed a longstanding relationship with Price, explaining,
“I (am) very well-acquainted with him. I’ve known him back 8 years ago. We actually even sparred together a couple times back in the day. I have nothing but outmost respect for Niko. I know what he means to this company,”
and continued,
“I know what he’s done to this company. The kind of fights that he showed. He’s always exciting. He’s never in a boring fight and I’m thankful to him that he took the fight on a short-notice.”
Future UFC Opponents and Commitment to Continued Training
Looking ahead, Veretennikov remained open and eager about his next challenge within the UFC, sharing that no specific opponent is targeted yet. He stated,
“There isn’t an exact plan. There isn’t names that I would like to say. Whoever the UFC gives me, I’m going to be ready for them,”
demonstrating readiness regardless of the matchup.
Following a lengthy suspension period, Veretennikov is determined to return swiftly to training and competition. He concluded with a passionate message about his mindset moving forward:
Image of: UFC
“I haven’t been suspended for a long time. After that I’m hoping to come right back to the gym. Keep training, keep staying sharp, being ready. The only thing I can say is let’s go. Pedal to the metal.”
Implications for Veretennikov’s Rising UFC Career
This knockout victory and performance bonus could mark a turning point in Veretennikov’s UFC journey, signaling his emergence as a dynamic contender in the welterweight division. His respectful acknowledgment of Price’s influence and his determined focus suggest a balanced competitor ready to take on the challenges ahead. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Veretennikov prepares for a swift return and seeks to build on this momentum in future UFC bouts.
