Austin Vanderford made his long-awaited debut at UFC Seattle, securing his first victory with authority on Feb. 22, 2025. The former Bellator title contender faced Nikolay Veretennikov, stepping up to fight with only four days’ notice. Vanderford dominated the match, delivering a second-round TKO via ground-and-pound, but the post-fight scene took a heated turn when Veretennikov confronted him following the referee’s stoppage.
Vanderford’s arrival was one many had anticipated, especially since he is also known as the husband of ex-UFC star Paige VanZant. The matchup against Veretennikov, who was making his second appearance in the UFC, was seen as pivotal for both fighters. The bout took place at the Climate Pledge Arena, where Vanderford’s wrestling skills quickly became apparent as the crowd cheered him on.
“I took this fight on four days’ notice; just stayed ready,” said Vanderford after his strong performance. He utilized his grappling background effectively, maneuvering Veretennikov to the mat and maintaining control throughout the first round. Despite Veretennikov’s earlier attempts to counter, Vanderford’s ground game was unrelenting.
Vanderford executed multiple takedowns and inflicted significant damage. By round two, he really began to push the pace, landing heavy strikes until the referee, Kevin MacDonald, intervened at 4:13, marking the official result as Vanderford winning by TKO.
Post-fight, things took a turn when Veretennikov, seemingly upset with the referee’s decision, pushed Vanderford from behind as he celebrated with his team. Vanderford, known for being one of the nicest athletes in MMA, did not hold back as he responded to the shove with one of his own and raised his middle finger at Veretennikov. Security quickly moved to separate the two fighters as tensions ran high.
“He wasn’t happy with some shots,” Vanderford noted, referring to Veretennikov’s reaction. “But I was here to get the job done.” The interaction drew attention, with viewers commenting on the unusualness of such altercations post-fight.
This victory is very much part of Vanderford’s larger narrative, particularly since he made the decision to move down to welterweight for UFC gold. After leaving the Bellator/PFL roster and competing successfully at LFA, Vanderford’s aspiration was clear. His wife VanZant, who cornered him during the fight, is also experiencing her adventure back to competition with her own upcoming bout.
“It feels amazing to finally deliver like this,” Vanderford expressed jubilantly. Vanderford’s debut victory allows him to pave his way to future matchups within the welterweight division, where competition is fierce, and opportunities are valuable. The 34-year-old is eager to maximize his momentum.
Despite the volatile conclusion to the fight, Vanderford’s focus is on what lies ahead. “I’d like to keep moving up the rankings”, he outlined. The outcome of the fight raises questions for Veretennikov, who may face uncertain prospects following this disappointing performance.
UFC Seattle not only highlighted Vanderford's potential but also his resolve to evolve as a fighter amid unexpected challenges. Fans found excitement not just with the action within the octagon but also with the drama afterward, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Turning his attention to the future, Vanderford is anticipated to face more formidable opponents as he climbs the ranks, all the time vying for the ultimate goal: to become champion. With heavy support and eyes on him, he left Seattle with his head held high and preparations underway for the next chapter.