Magomed Zaynukov shuts down UFC Qatar fight rumors, out until 2027

Magomed Zaynukov has shut down rumors linking him to a November matchup with Manoel Sousa at UFC Qatar, clarifying that he never signed a contract for the bout and will not compete for the remainder of 2026. The undefeated Dagestani lightweight, who joined the UFC as Islam Makhachev's teammate, is recovering from surgery on a lingering hand injury he underwent earlier this year. "I didn't sign any contract for this fight," Zaynukov wrote on his Instagram Stories. "I won't be fighting this year due to surgery. I'm currently undergoing rehabilitation and recovery." Zaynukov made his Octagon debut in July, earning a unanimous decision victory over Damian Rzepecki following his appearance on Dana White's Contender Series. The 31-year-old entered the UFC with a perfect 9-0 record and substantial fan support accumulated through his association with reigning lightweight champion Makhachev. With recovery ongoing, Zaynukov is expected to return to competition in 2027.