Ex-UFC Fighter Snaps 4-Fight Losing Streak With Violent TKO at NFC 55

Originally posted on MMA on SI | Last updated Dec 6, 2023 11:21 AM ET

Zhalgas Zhumagulov looked impressive in his first fight since he parted ways with the UFC earlier this year.

“Zhako” signed with the UFC in 2020 following a successful run as the Fight Nights Global flyweight champion, which concluded with a decision win over former UFC title challenger Ali Bagautinov.

Zhumagulov came up short in his first two UFC bouts before he submitted Jerome Rivera in the first round at UFC 264. That result unfortunately ended up being his only win in the promotion, as he was knocked out by Manel Kape in his next fight before losing three split decisions in a row - two of which were highly contentious.

The 35-year-old exited the UFC following his loss to Joshua Van in June, and it didn’t take long for him to sign on with Kazakhstan's Naiza FC and take on Masato Nakamura in his first post-UFC outing at Naiza FC 55 (shout-out to @pelunaton for the clip).

Scheduled as the night’s co-main event, Zhumagulov and Nakamura spent the opening minute exchanging on the feet until “Zhako” staggered his opponent with a hard leg kick.

The Japanese fighter quickly scrambled for a takedown against the fence, but Zhumagulov stifled his attempt with thudding elbows, eventually finishing the fight with relentless ground and pound.

The result was a huge statement for Zhumagulov following his disappointing run with the UFC and the four-fight skid that ended his time with the promotion.

At 35 years old, with nearly ten years of pro experience, it's unlikely that “Zhako” gets a second chance in the UFC, but fight fans will certainly be paying attention the next time he steps into the cage for Naiza FC.

This article first appeared on MMA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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