The bantamweight champion of AMC Fight Nights in Kazakhstan, Sabit Zhusupov, spoke about his readiness for a potential second title defense and explained how the financial terms of a fight could shape his decision. The veteran fighter offered candid remarks that shed light on his negotiation stance and future plans. His comments were summarized by Legalbet.kz to provide fans with a clearer picture of what lies ahead for this rising star.
Zhusupov acknowledged that he has not yet seen a new contract, noting that his previous agreement with AMC Fight Nights has expired. With no binding deal in place, he outlined two possible paths: continue defending the belt within AMC Fight Nights, or take his talents abroad where another promotion might offer a more lucrative arrangement. He emphasized that compensation plays a decisive role—if the second defense comes with a substantial fee, it could tilt the balance in favor of staying with AMC Fight Nights; if not, an international opportunity might be more appealing. In his own words, the prospect of competing overseas could be more attractive when the terms are right, signaling a flexible approach to his career at this stage.
In related discussions, AMC Fight Nights president Kamil Gadzhiev shared plans for a major show set to take place in Kazakhstan on May 3. The event was expected to feature a high-profile clash between Zhusupov and Maharram Hasanzade, a matchup that has been repeatedly cited in discussions about Zhusupov’s potential second title defense. The promotion’s leadership underscored that this upcoming bout is central to arguments about his next title defense, highlighting the importance of timing, venue, and audience interest as elements of the negotiation process.
Looking back, Zhusupov’s first reign-defining moment came on November 10, 2023, when he defended the promotion’s lightweight belt in a high-stakes showdown held in Moscow. The Kazakh challenger faced Wanderlei Junior, a Brazilian competitor, and secured a knockout victory in the second round. That performance solidified Zhusupov’s status within the organization and signaled his capability to close fights decisively at the highest level, a factor that continues to influence discussions about his future and the terms that would accompany any subsequent defense request.
Beyond the cage, another notable thread in the conversation concerns the broader willingness of fighters to consider competing outside their home borders. Reports have highlighted a dialogue about living and competing outside the United States, with some athletes expressing a preference for different training environments or contractual structures. While this context doesn’t define Zhusupov’s path, it adds texture to the landscape in which his negotiations will unfold. The question remains how a globally freeing career path might align with a fighter’s personal goals, financial expectations, and competitive ambitions, and Zhusupov’s position is no exception to this reality.
In sum, the near-term outlook for Sabit Zhusupov hinges on a combination of contract terms, potential opponents, and strategic choices about where to fight next. If AMC Fight Nights can secure a favorable second-defense fee, the likelihood of maintaining the title within the promotion remains strong. Conversely, an international offer with compelling compensation could steer him toward opportunities abroad. The upcoming May event in Kazakhstan and the ongoing discussions with Hasanzade are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the exact trajectory of Zhusupov’s championship journey. As the market for combat sports continues to evolve, his approach to negotiations and career planning will likely reflect a balance between loyalty to his current organization and a pragmatic assessment of where his talents can shine the brightest.
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