Coach Javier Mendez claims Magomed
Zaynukov is a well-rounded fighter.
Muay thai specialist Zaynukov (9-0) stands out in Khabib
Nurmagomedov’s team, which is known for its dominant
wrestling-heavy approach. However, Mendez claims Zaynukov has
developed a well-rounded arsenal and has the potential to emerge as
a big star in the
Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Javier Mendez explains why Magomed Zaynukov’s wrestling growth
makes him more than a Muay Thai specialist
The
American Kickboxing Academy head coach claims Zaynukov gives
Islam
Makhachev tough rounds in sparring as he has sharpened his
wrestling defense and has even accrued some ground attacks. Mendez
also believes that “Wild Chanco” will grow into a fan favorite,
given his fighting style.
“Chanco gives Islam some really tough rounds because he’s gotten
really good at defending and surviving on the ground and getting
back up,” Mendez told Red Corner MMA. “Or even attacking on the
ground. ‘Chanco’ is a total MMA package. Don’t look at him as just
a Thai boxer. He’s a total package. He can do it all… He likes to
strike because that’s what he’s done his whole life… People
normally tend to like the strikers over the ground guys. So
‘Chanco’ is going to be a fan favorite for sure.”
Zaynukov earned a contract on
Dana White’s Contender Series last year and made his UFC debut
against Damian
Rzepecki at
UFC Abu Dhabi. He battered Rzepecki with a variety of strikes,
including some flashy elbows, en route to a decision win.
“Chanko is a total MMA package. Don’t look
at him as just a Thai boxer.”
Earlier this year, we caught up with coach Javier Mendez, who spoke
highly of Magomed “Chanko” Zaynukov, calling him a complete mixed
martial artist with all the tools to become a UFC fan favourite
and… pic.twitter.com/koOENnlzWG
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA)
July 29, 2026