A new video interview has been released featuring Zhalgas Zhumagulov following his first career knockout victory. His eldest son and Sergey Morozov traveled to attend the fight. The conversation covered several topics including Zhumagulov's potential return to the UFC, the current state of modern MMA culture, and challenges facing young fighters today. The interview provides an in-depth look at Zhumagulov's career trajectory and his perspectives on the sport.
Zhalgas Zhumagulov sat down for an extended video interview following a milestone moment in his career — his first knockout finish — and used the platform to address his future in the UFC and broader topics shaping the sport today.
Zhumagulov, 37, carries a professional record of 14-9 and competes out of American Top Team. The Kazakhstani fighter stands five-foot-four with a 66-inch reach and operates out of a switch stance. He is one of the more active strikers in his division, landing 5.24 significant strikes per minute at 43 percent accuracy, and occasionally mixes in grappling with 1.3 takedowns per 15 minutes. The knockout victory marked a new dimension to his game, and the interview reportedly covered what that achievement means for his career trajectory and a potential return to the UFC.
In attendance at the fight were Zhumagulov's eldest son and fellow Kazakhstani fighter Sergey Morozov, whose presence added a personal dimension to the occasion. Morozov, also 37 and also a member of American Top Team, holds a record of 19-5. The 168-centimeter bantamweight is a consistent finisher who averages 3.01 significant strikes per minute and a strong 3.63 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him one of the more well-rounded fighters to come out of Kazakhstan.
The conversation extended beyond the knockout itself, touching on the evolution of modern MMA culture and the obstacles young fighters face as they try to navigate the sport professionally.
Why it matters
- Zhumagulov's first career knockout could strengthen his case for a UFC booking
- Both fighters represent a growing Kazakhstani presence in the UFC bantamweight and flyweight divisions
- The interview signals Zhumagulov remains active and engaged with the sport at 37, with his American Top Team support system intact
