Outside Source
Makhachev recently revealed that “Chanco” himself was shocked by the recognition he has in America. Zaynukov (8-0) was overwhelmed to see journalists waiting for an interview with him. However, team leader Khabib Nurmagomedov calmed him down and stopped him from chasing the hype.
Don’t Believe the Hype
“He used to be a humble kid, now he’s not,” Makhachev told Red Corner MMA. “He himself was shocked by the way they recognized him in the U.S. Journalists were waiting in the lobby to get an interview. He went a bit too far, and Khabib slowed him down. He said, ‘Chanco, don’t chase the hype; the hype has to chase you.’ So we slowed him down on time.”
“Chanco” first received attention when Makhachev introduced him to Demetrious Johnson in a viral video. Many mistook his surname for “John Pork,” which even added to his stardom. Zaynukov earned his UFC contract with a unanimous decision win over Lucas Caldas in October 2025. The undefeated 31-year-old already has a massive fanbase even before making his UFC debut.
Islam reveals Chanko was stunned by his recognition in the US, and Khabib had to step in. 😲😅
“He was shocked by the way they recognized him in the US. Journalists were waiting in the lobby to interview him. He went a bit too far, and Khabib slowed him down. Khabib said, ‘Don’t… pic.twitter.com/RYLJAIiwp8
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 16, 2026
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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