Islam Makhachev Hilariously Asks UFC Legend to Take Commission for Making Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaynukov Famous

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev urges Demetrious Johnson to hilariously ask money for making 'Chanco' famous.

Islam Makhachev Hilariously Asks UFC Legend to Take Commission for Making Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaynukov Famous

Islam Makhachev asks Demetrious Johnson to take credit (via Yahoo Sports. X)

Islam Makhachev has always had a strong team through his association with Khabib Nurmagomedov and the Dagestani training system. One member is Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaynukov, who has become a fan favorite despite making his UFC debut recently.

Zaynukov is a Muay Thai specialist and regional champion who earned his UFC opportunity through Dana White’s Contender Series. He dominated Lucas Caldas to secure a contract before defeating Damian Rzepecki at UFC Abu Dhabi. The victory marked a successful UFC debut and improved his undefeated record to 9-0.

Zaynukov rose to prominence after Makhachev introduced him to UFC legend Demetrious Johnson during a training visit. Fans misheard “Chanco” as “John Pork,” turning him into an online sensation before his UFC debut. Makhachev recently hilariously suggested Johnson should take credit for Zaynukov’s rise.

I think Chanco have to pay you some percentage bro. You make him like a big star bro. You make him popular in USA.

Islam Makhachev via Mighty Cast

Johnson collaborated with Nurmagomedov and Makhachev last year. The UFC Hall of Famer has often praised Nurmagomedov’s career while maintaining a cordial friendship with the welterweight champion. His connection with the Dagestani fighters has also linked him to Zaynukov’s story.

What also makes Zaynukov so popular is undoubtedly his confidence, which he displayed even before entering the UFC. Ahead of his debut, he warned Rzepecki and made it clear that facing him carried special significance. Zaynukov also stated that it should be an honor for Rzepecki to fight a member of Team Khabib.

Zaynukov has also targeted established UFC lightweights, including Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria, showing his ambitions after entering the promotion.

After his UFC Abu Dhabi victory, he called out Topuria while making clear his interest in facing elite opposition. ‘Chanco’ has also taken aim at Tsarukyan over his inactivity inside the UFC.

However, Zaynukov’s growing popularity has also attracted Khabib Nurmagomedov’s attention. The former UFC lightweight champion urged the prospect to stay humble and avoid getting carried away by his popularity. Nurmagomedov emphasized remaining focused despite Zaynukov’s growing attention.

Magomed Zaynukov has become one of the UFC’s most popular prospects, with his rise boosted by ‘Mighty Mouse’. Since Makhachev introduced the two, Demetrious Johnson has become linked to the young dagestani’s growing popularity. Islam Makhachev jokingly asking to take credit adds a fitting touch to their connection.

RELATED
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Hilarious Criticism of Magomed “Chanco” Zaynukov After Debut UFC Win Revealed

Islam Makhachev offers former rival a Dagestan trip

Before his UFC 302 title defense against Dustin Poirier, Islam Makhachev discussed Dagestani training with Daniel Cormier. Makhachev suggested the former two-division champion send his young son to Dagestan for two to three years. He said the extended stay could help Cormier’s son develop high-level wrestling.

The meme became a global sensation, spreading beyond MMA and introducing Dagestan’s training culture to audiences worldwide. Makhachev recently revealed it has also boosted sports tourism, with athletes visiting his gym for photos and training sessions. He said the gym is now so busy that people can barely get in or out.

Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev (via The Ring Magazine)

The UFC welterweight champion recently appeared on Mighty Cast and invited Demetrious Johnson to train in Dagestan for two to three years. Makhachev clowned Johnson after he said he needed to ask his wife before accepting.

The Dagestani star later extended the same offer to former rival Alexander Volkanovski, an opponent Makhachev defeated at UFC 284 and UFC 294. However, Volk replied just like ‘Mighty Mouse’ did.

Islam Makhachev has also played a major role in boosting Dagestan’s popularity through his success and connection to the region.

He now prepares to defend his welterweight title against Ian Garry at UFC 330. The fight gives Makhachev another major stage as his influence extends beyond the UFC.

Also Read: