Damian Rzepecki Teases ‘Dagestani Muay Thai vs. Polish Power’ Showdown, Vows to Take Everything from Magomed Zaynukov

Damian Rzepecki isn't intimidated by the hype surrounding Magomed Zaynukov, aka “John Pork.” If anything, the Polish striker sees it as the perfect opportunity to introduce himself to UFC fans.

Set to make his promotional debut against the highly touted Dagestani prospect, Rzepecki knows much of the attention has been centered on his opponent's connection to Islam Makhachev and the reputation that comes with fighting out of one of MMA's most successful camps. 

The 24-year-old has no interest in playing the role of stepping stone. Instead, he plans to build his own name by handing Zaynukov his first professional defeat.

Damian Rzepecki Welcomes Striking Battle with Magomed Zaynukov

While many opponents have been overwhelmed by the aura surrounding Dagestani fighters, Rzepecki believes this matchup is an opportunity rather than a burden. Speaking to Red Corner MMA ahead of the fight, he acknowledged the spotlight on Zaynukov but made it clear that he wants fans to remember him for his own performances, not for who his opponent trains with.

"It's a big fight for the debut. He's famous because of his nickname, because he is part of Team Makhachev," Rzepecki stated. "I'm a friend with Ilia Topuria and I helped him in his last camp. But I want to build my name on me, on my fights."

Rzepecki, popularly known as “The Butcher” in the MMA circle, also dismissed the notion that Zaynukov's striking pedigree gives him any reason for concern. Having spent more than a decade competing in kickboxing, the Polish phenom believes the fight could turn into a fascinating stand-up battle between two different striking backgrounds.

"I'm not scared of his Muay Thai," Rezpecki said. "He's a Dagestani Muay Thai fighter, I'm doing kickboxing for 10 years in Poland. So maybe it will be Dagestani Muay Thai vs Polish kickboxing… Polish legendary power. I'm sure it's going to be a great fight."

"The Butcher" Makes UFC Debut July 25

For Rzepecki (10-0), the matchup is more than just a UFC debut. It's an opportunity to prove his striking belongs among the UFC's best while derailing one of the promotion's most highly regarded prospects.

Zaynukov is set to make his long-awaited promotional debut against the unbeaten Pole at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26 inside Etihad Arena. The matchup pits two undefeated prospects against one another in what could be an early litmus test for both men's futures in the promotion. 

Damian Rzepecki Promises to Spoil Zaynukov's UFC Debut Spotlight

Zaynukov (8-0) arrives in the UFC carrying considerable expectations. The undefeated lightweight has long been viewed as one of the brightest prospects to emerge from Dagestan, with many fans eager to see whether his success outside the promotion translates against elite competition.

The former FEN Lightweight champion Rzepecki, who has won nine of his ten of his bouts by stoppage, however, has little interest in feeding into that narrative.

Rather than viewing himself as the underdog opposite one of the division's most talked-about newcomers, the Polish striker believes he is the one leaving with everything that currently surrounds Zaynukov.

"After the fight, my hand goes up and I will take everything from him." Zaynukov may enter the Octagon with the bigger reputation, but Rzepecki has made it clear he doesn't plan on playing a supporting role.

In his mind, July 25 isn't about welcoming a rising star to the UFC. It's about announcing his own arrival.