One of the most anticipated fights in European MMA this year has been officially set. The main attraction will be the champion versus champion fight Octagon 89 as bantamweight king Igor Severino defends his title against reigning flyweight champion Zhalgas Zhumagulov.

The historic clash takes place on June 6 in Bratislava, Slovakiaas part Celebration of the 10th anniversary of OKTAGON MMA. Zhumagulov will move up the weight class in an attempt to become A simultaneous champion of two divisionsadding even more intrigue to one of the promotion’s biggest fights to date.

Igor Severino’s rapid rise continues

Exactly 22 years venerableBrazilian Igor Severino has quickly become one of the most talked about prospects in MMA.

Severino first made global headlines in 2024, during his brief stint with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, after a controversial biting incident led to his release. However, the teenage Brazilian quickly recovered, signing a contract with OKTAGON MMA and adopting the pseudonym “Hannibal Lecter”.

He made an impressive debut in the organization, defeating former bantamweight champion Jonas Mågård. Severino followed this performance with a devastating knockout victory Winner of the PFL Europe tournament Khurshed Kakhorov won the bantamweight title last month.

Even at the beginning of his career, Severino had already declared his ambition to stay the promotion’s number one pound-for-pound fighterand a victory over a veteran like Zhumagulov would be another huge step towards achieving that goal.

Zhalgas Zhumagulov in pursuit of a history of two divisions

On the other side of the cage will be one of the most experienced fighters in the division.

Zhalgas Zhumagulov from Kazakhstan developed Professional record 19-9 and fought the best flyweights in the world. His resume includes fights against top fighters such as Amir Albazi and Manel Kape, as well as a split decision loss to current UFC champion Joshua Van.

Since joining OKTAGON, Zhumagulov has looked invigorated. He won the organization’s flyweight championship and successfully defended the belt in December, defeating David Dvořák in the third round.

Now the Kazakh standout is looking for a historic moment by moving up to bantamweight to challenge Severino and try to hold titles in two divisions simultaneously.

Arranged card for the OCTAGON anniversary event

Several additional, high-profile fights will take place at OKTAGON 89.

In the heavyweight division, Lazar Todev will face Martin Buday in a fight that will have major title implications.

Slovak Robert Pukač will defend his home pitch against Irish striker Brian Manning in what promises to be an explosive clash.

Fan favorites Ronald Paradeiser, Marek Mazúch and Radovan Úškrt will also take part in the event, with their opponents expected to be announced soon.

Thanks to the clash of two champions and the performances of several top European talents, OCTAGON 89 becomes one of the most significant events in the history of the promotion.