What Should Be Next for Azamat Murzakanov After UFC 321?

What Should Be Next for Azamat Murzakanov After UFC 321?5 days ago

Azamat Murzakanov continued his perfect ascent at UFC 321, knocking out Aleksandar Rakić in the first round to move his record to 16-0 with twelve finishes. Already ranked No. 7 in the UFC light heavyweight division, Murzakanov has made a habit of blitzing proven names with his deceptive speed, power, and relentless pace. With his grappling background, world-class hand-to-hand combat credentials, and recent top-10 wins, Murzakanov deserves a chance to break into title contention.

The ideal next fight is Jiří Procházka. Procházka, the former UFC champion and No. 1 contender, returned to form with recent wins over Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree Jr., showcasing his unorthodox, explosive style and legendary durability. With current champion Alex Pereira likely waiting for a super fight or recovering from injury, a contender bout between Murzakanov and Procházka would provide the division with answers. Can Murzakanov’s pressure and finishing ability solve Procházka’s unpredictable offense, or will Jiří’s championship experience and chaos overwhelm the surging Russian contender?

Stylistically, this matchup promises fireworks. Murzakanov thrives on forward pressure, timing, and tight combinations, while Procházka excels in unpredictable movement, counters, and fight-altering power. Both fighters are proven finishers who rarely go the distance, setting the stage for an all-action battle that could determine the next challenger for the light heavyweight title.

Last Five Fights – Azamat Murzakanov:

1. Win over Aleksandar Rakić – TKO (punches), UFC 321 (October 25, 2025)
2. Win over Brendson Ribeiro – TKO (submission to punches), UFC 316 (June 7, 2025)
3. Win over Alonzo Menifield – KO (punches), UFC on ABC 7 (August 3, 2024)
4. Win over Dustin Jacoby – Decision (unanimous), UFC on ESPN (April 15, 2023)
5. Win over Devin Clark – TKO (punches), UFC on ESPN (August 13, 2022)

Last Five Fights – Jiří Procházka:

1. Win over Khalil Rountree Jr. – KO (punches), UFC 320 (October 4, 2025)
2. Win over Jamahal Hill – TKO (punches), UFC 311 (January 18, 2025)
3. Loss to Alex Pereira – TKO (head kick and punches), UFC 303 (June 29, 2024)
4. Win over Aleksandar Rakić – TKO (punches), UFC 300 (April 13, 2024)
5. Loss to Alex Pereira – TKO (elbows), UFC 295 (November 11, 2023)