Magomed Zaynukov breaks silence on UFC Qatar fight rumors against Manoel Sousa

Magomed Zaynukov made his UFC debut in July. He delivered a dominant performance to secure a unanimous decision victory over Damian Rzepecki. This performance has earned him widespread praise from the fans. 

Recently, rumors began to circulate online that ‘Wild Chanko’ is set to return in November and will face Manoel Sousa at UFC Qatar on November 21 in Doha. However, the Russian fighter has denied signing for the fight and also ruled out returning to the octagon this year. 

Magomed Zaynukov denies signing UFC Qatar fight against Manoel Sousa as surgery delays return

Zaynukov took to the Instagram story to address the rumors. He made it clear that he has not agreed to fight Sousa at UFC Qatar.

He also revealed that he is currently recovering from surgery, meaning his focus is on getting healthy rather than preparing for another UFC appearance.

“I didn’t sign any contract for this fight. I won’t be fighting this year due to surgery. I am currently undergoing rehabilitation and recovering,” Zaynukov wrote. 

Check out Magomed Zaynukov’s Instagram story screenshot via MMA Orbit below: 

Zaynukov earned his UFC contract with a decision victory over Lucas Caldas at Dana White's Contender Series Season 9, Week 9. He currently holds a perfect record of nine wins.

Even before his UFC debut, 'Wild Chanko' was all over the internet, as he trains with Team Khabib. One incident that earned him significant attention was when Islam Makhachev introduced him to Demetrious Johnson as "Chanko," but many heard "John Pork." The clip went viral, and everyone became aware of Zaynukov.

He later got involved in a brawl with team Khabib’s rival, Dillon Danis, at the cage side at UFC 322, which was headlined by Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena. Since his stardom has risen, with his impressive debut performance, he has earned a significant fan base. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov praises Magomed Zaynukov after UFC debut win

Zaynukov's debut performance has earned him praise from UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. After his debut win, in the post-fight presser, ‘Wild Chanko’ revealed he spoke to ‘The Eagle’ and the former champion praised his performance. 

“We spoke immediately after I got out of the cage,” Zaynukov revealed during his post-fight press conference. “Khabib said, ‘It was a great, exciting, and fun fight, but you missed a takedown, and that’s not okay."

Now that Zaynukov has revealed his decision to stay out of competition, fans will have to wait longer to see the Russian build on his impressive UFC debut.