Nikita Kulshin finishes Junior Melo in first round, calls out UFC for contract

Lightweight Nikita Kulshin improved his undefeated record to 9-0 with a first-round knockout of Junior Melo at an LFA event. The 26-year-old from North Ossetia has been living in the United States for four years and trains at Kill Cliff gym. This marked his sixth consecutive victory in LFA over three years, with his previous four wins coming by decision and his LFA debut also ending in knockout. In his post-fight interview, Kulshin grabbed the microphone and called out the UFC, stating he is ready to step in on short notice at any time. Melo entered the bout with a 15-9-1 record.