Zhalgas Zhumagulov vs Felipe Bunes: Preview, Where to Watch and Betting Odds

Popular Kazakhstan fighter Zhalgas Zhumagulov will be fighting for his UFC career when he clashes against promotional newcomer and LFA Flyweight champion Felipe Bunes of Brazil at UFC on ESPN 47. The UFC Fight Night holds at the Apex this Saturday in Las Vegas. Zhalgas Zhumagulov is on a terrible run of form with a record of 1-5 in the UFC. Despite the poor record, the Kazakh is the favorite, with the bookies going into the fight against the talented debutant.

MMA: UFC Flyweight

Location: UFC Apex, Las Vegas

Where to watch: ESPN/ESPN+

Date: 18.06.2023. 03.05

The 34-year-old Kazakh earned a UFC contract following a stellar early career in several promotions, including winning the Fight Nights Global Flyweight Championship in 2018. Unfortunately for “Zhako” his UFC career has been blighted by a lack of threat from him, tough fights, and a spate of controversial judges’ decisions against him. The media all queried his losses to Raulian Paiva, Jeff Molina, and Charles Johnson. Debuting in the UFC in 2020, the Kazakh’s sole win was a submission of Jerome Rivera in July 2021 at UFC 264. Zhalgas Zhumagulov recently became an internet sensation when pictures of his new haircut became controversial. The fighter said he had gotten the bowl cut in honor of The Beetles.

• Age: 34
• Height: 5’ 4”
• Reach: 66”
• Record: 14-8

“Felipinho” is a gritty and fast striker. The Brazilian may not pack a punch, but his fast hands and ability to stay in the fight are some of his main attributes. In his last loss against Jussier Formiga at LFA 124, he was held in a rear naked choke but resisted the tap-out for many extra seconds. “Felipinho” moved to Russia to fight in the ACA in 2019. Losing his three fights in the promotion, he gained valuable experience in grappling and wrestling. At 33, Felipe Bunes, the newly minted LFA Flyweight champion, will debut in the UFC after picking up the LFA prize in January. He is on a two-match winning streak.

• Age: 33
• Height: 5’ 7”
• Reach: 71”
• Record: 13-6

Felipe Bunes is 2.40 to win on Bet365 as the underdog. Zhalgas Zhumagulov to win is priced at 1.58 odds on Bet365. Under 2.5 is available at 2.65 on 1XBET, with Over at 1.44. Coinplay lists Yes for Fight to go the distance at 1.50 odds.