Islam Makhachev: How Teammate Was Overwhelmed by Unexpected Stardom

Islam Makhachev’s teammate, Magomed "Wild Chanco" Zaynukov, didn’t expect the hype he suddenly has.

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…