Sat Feb 22 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## UFC Fighter Bukauskas Vows 2025 Breakthrough Year
**Seattle, WA** – Modestas Bukauskas, the “Baltic Gladiator,” has declared 2025 his year to break into the UFC’s top 15 light-heavyweight rankings. Two years after a triumphant return from a career-threatening knee injury, Bukauskas feels stronger and more determined than ever.
Following a victory last July, Bukauskas aims to make a significant statement in his upcoming fight against Raffael Cerqueira in Seattle. He acknowledges his previous UFC wins have been solid, but lacks the standout performance needed to truly establish himself. “I haven’t really had that performance to send shockwaves into the system,” he admitted in an exclusive interview with SunSport.
His journey back to the octagon has been challenging, but Bukauskas believes the adversity has made him a better fighter. He’s confident his explosive fighting style, focused on securing finishes rather than points victories, will propel him towards his goal. “I’m always fighting for the finish,” he stated. “I’m here to make the finish.”
A win against Cerqueira would be a crucial step in Bukauskas’ plan to challenge the top names in the division later this year. He insists he’s not just participating, but aiming for a dominant presence in the UFC’s light heavyweight scene. “I’m not just here to fill up the numbers. I’m here to make a statement,” he declared.
First Piper 