Overview
- Multiple outlets report Zaynukov will make his UFC debut against Damian Rzepecki on July 25 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
- Zaynukov earned a UFC contract after a unanimous decision on Dana White’s Contender Series in October 2025 and has trained with Islam Makhachev’s camp.
- The matchup matches two unbeaten prospects with Rzepecki described as a 10-0 finisher who has won most fights by stoppage and Zaynukov listed by some outlets as 8-0 and others as 10-0.
- Zaynukov’s public profile grew after a viral mishearing of his nickname and his involvement in the cageside brawl at UFC 322, factors that raise visibility for his first UFC outing.
- The bout is part of the UFC Abu Dhabi card headlined by Magomed Ankalaev vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. and will stream on Paramount+.