Kazakh MMA Fighter Zhalgas Zhumagulov’s US Stay and UFC Journey
Kazakh mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Zhalgas Zhumagulov has spoken about the high cost of backing a team in the United States while competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His remarks were quoted by Legalbet.kz.
He estimates that he spent a substantial amount during his time in the United States. In a six‑month stretch marked by five consecutive fights, Zhumagulov says his expenses totaled about 70 thousand dollars. acing the realities of training and competing abroad, he acknowledged how quickly costs can add up when competing at the highest level in a foreign country.
Over the course of his professional career, Zhumagulov has fought in 24 bouts, securing 15 victories and suffering nine losses. In the UFC, he logged seven appearances, recording six defeats before parting ways with the promotion in the summer of 2023. His UFC tenure was marked by the challenges of adapting to a global stage and maintaining peak performance while sustaining a demanding travel and training schedule.
Zhumagulov most recently stepped into the cage on December 6, 2023, facing Japanese fighter Masato Nakamura at NFC 55, within the Naiza Fighter Championship 55 event. The bout concluded with a technical knockout at 3 minutes and 17 seconds into the first round, highlighting the ongoing competitive fire that continues to drive his career.
Previous reports noted discussions around injuries impacting fighters during the sport, including Petr Yan, whose cruciate ligament issues have been documented in various outlets. Such injuries underscore the physical toll of MMA and the importance of careful medical and training management for fighters aiming to compete at elite levels.
As Zhumagulov looks ahead, his story reflects not only the pressures of sustaining a career in MMA but also the often overlooked financial and logistical aspects that come with competing on the world stage. His experiences provide a candid view of the dedication required to pursue success in martial arts, especially for athletes coming from countries with evolving MMA ecosystems and seeking opportunities abroad. Sources that discuss his journey emphasize both the athletic milestones and the personal costs involved in maintaining a competitive edge in North American promotions and international events. (Legalbet.kz)