Nikita Krylov drops to 205, replaces Thiago Silva against St. Preux

Nikita Krylov (16-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) is making the drop to light heavyweight, this in order to replace Thiago Silva against Ovince St. Preux at UFC 171 in Dallas, Texas.

UFC officials announced the switch this evening, just hours after breaking the news that the promotion had terminated the contract of Thiago Silva, who was arrested on the evening of February 6 and is being held without bond.

Nikita Krylov will make his light heavyweight debut on the heels of his 25-second first-round KO victory over Walt Harris at last month’s UFC on FOX 10 event. The victory served as Krylov’s first inside the octagon, as he was previously defeated by Soa Palelei in his promotional debut.

Meanwhile, Ovince St-Preux is currently riding a 3-fight win streak, his latest being a KO victory over Cody Donovan at August’s ‘UFC Fight Night 26’ event. Prior to that, St-Preux defeated Gian Villante via technical decision at UFC 159.

UFC 171 takes place March 15 live from Dallas’ American Airlines Center. The event is headlined by a 170-pound bout between Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler, who will be fighting for the UFC’s vacant welterweight title.

The main card of UFC 171 will air live on pay-per-view, following the prelims which show on FOX Sports 1 and UFC Fight Pass.

Who do you have winning this light heavyweight match-up? Let’s hear it Penn Nation!

By Chris Taylor