Umar Dzambekov (12-0, 8 KOs) is ready to test himself on a bigger stage as he headlines his first U.S. main event this Friday at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, California. The unbeaten light heavyweight will face Russia’s Artem Brusov (13-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round bout streaming live on UFC Fight Pass.
For the 27-year-old Austrian, now based in Los Angeles, the fight represents more than just a step up in rounds. It is an opportunity to show where he belongs in a division stacked with elite names. “We will find out after this fight,” said trainer Marvin Somodio. “Based on training, he can fight the top guys right now.”
Brusov is a dangerous power puncher training in Florida. The 34-year-old suffered a setback to Atif Oberlton in 2023 but bounced back with a knockout win over Wilson Santana in May. His punching power poses a real test for Dzambekov, who is stepping into his first scheduled 10-rounder under the bright lights of a U.S. main event.
Somodio acknowledged the unknowns that come with this moment. “It is different in the gym, everything changes when you go to different places, especially in front of a crowd. The mental part is the thing that can affect the fighter's ability.” Still, he insists Dzambekov has the tools. “Umar is a complete fighter. His skills, his heart, and he is a light heavyweight who moves like a lighter fighter.”
With champions like Artur Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol, David Benavidez and David Morrell ruling the division, Dzambekov faces a steep climb if he hopes to reach the summit. Friday night will offer the clearest sign yet of whether he is ready to start that journey.
Fight card:
▪️Umar Dzambekov vs. Artem Brusov, 10 rounds, light heavyweight
▪️Cain Sandoval vs. Jino Rodrigo, 10 rounds, super lightweight
▪️Daniel Barrera vs. Mario Hernandez, 8 rounds, super flyweight
▪️Iyana Verduzco vs. Perla Vanesa Lomeli, 8 rounds, super bantamweight
▪️Jonathan Vasquez vs. Antonio Ferrel, 4 rounds, featherweight
▪️Mario Zamora vs. Nino Carlo Caintoy, 4 rounds, super featherweight
