Nikita Kulshin scores first-round KO at LFA, calls out UFC

Lightweight Nikita Kulshin (9-0) knocked out Junior Melo (15-9-1) in the opening round at an LFA event on April 18, 2026. The 26-year-old fighter from North Ossetia has now won all six of his LFA bouts over three years, with four consecutive decision victories before this knockout. Kulshin has lived in the United States for four years and trains at Kill Cliff gym. In his post-fight interview, he called out the UFC and stated he is ready to fight on short notice at any time. This finish breaks a streak of decision wins and demonstrates his finishing ability.