Magomed Zaynukov reflects on year-long wait for UFC debut

Magomed Zaynukov makes his official UFC debut Saturday at UFC Abu Dhabi after waiting nearly a year since his Contender Series performance. The Dagestani lightweight faces Damian Rzepecki on the main card following an October win over Lucas Caldas that earned him a contract.

The extended delay came after Zaynukov was involved in a brawl with Dillon Danis at UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden. New York City mayor Eric Adams announced a police investigation at the time, though no charges were made public. Questions arose about the fighter's ability to re-enter the United States, per MMA Mania.

Zaynukov on patience and staying humble

Zaynukov told Anatomy Of A Fight the wait tested his mindset. "We all understand that everything we've been given is a test," he said. "Maybe it's a test to keep us from becoming arrogant. Our elders always remind us that no matter how popular you become or how big a star you are, you must stay humble."

The fighter gained viral attention through an internet meme falsely claiming his nickname is "John Pork." His actual nickname is "Chanko," after his hometown in Dagestan. His coach Ibrahim Khedirov gave him the name at the 2009 Dagestan Muay Thai Championships, and it stuck through 12 years of training under him.

UFC Abu Dhabi airs Saturday from Etihad Arena with Zaynukov and Rzepecki on the main card.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Magomed ‘John Pork’ Zaynukov reflects on long wait for UFC debut: ‘It’s a test to keep from being arrogant’