Tynchtykbek was born in the village of Sary-Küngöy, located in the Osh region, and his native village is now called Ryspaia Abdykadyrov. He received his education at the Ibraim Orozaliev school and then continued his studies at the Osh Technological University, where he earned a degree in "Finance and Credit."
Before becoming a mixed martial arts coach, Omurzakov practiced boxing. He recalls that at the beginning of his coaching career, he faced negative reactions from colleagues who doubted his qualifications. Despite this, he worked as a boxing coach for six months before deciding to transition to MMA.
The start of his career in mixed martial arts was not easy: he did not have his own gym, and training took place on the streets of Osh—under the bridge over the Ak-Buura River, at the city stadium, and in the vicinity of Sulayman-Too. Even now, as the coach notes, he does not have his own gym; however, his students continue to follow him and train in various locations.
How Omurzakov Met Myktybek Orolbay uulu
Tynchtykbek met future UFC fighter Myktybek Orolbay uulu through his older brothers—Zamirbek and Kuttubek Toktobaevs. Kuttubek was a friend of one of the coach's students, which allowed them to meet. A year later, in September 2017, 19-year-old Myktybek began training under Omurzakov's guidance.
The coach admits that he did not immediately see the talent in him, but another of his protégés—Aziz Satibaldiev, who could also have become a UFC fighter if not for the pandemic—came to help. "He doesn't have perfect technique, he doesn't know many techniques, but he has excellent endurance," Omurzakov shares, relaying Satibaldiev's words about Myktybek.
The coach also noted the importance of Altynbek Baltagulov, who was involved in training young athletes. It was under his guidance that Myktybek started before moving to coach Omurzakov.
Meeting with Uran Satibaldiev
Separately, Tynchtykbek spoke about his acquaintance with Uran Satibaldiev. Bektursun Tagaev trained with him and recommended Satibaldiev. "He's tall, has potential in combat sports, take him for training," Tynchtykbek relayed Tagaev's words.
In 2020, Uran joined the coach's team, and he immediately set a task for him—"not to step out of line." Satibaldiev met the challenge, and after that, the coach saw great potential in him and began to motivate him, saying that he could become a Kyrgyz hero, glorifying the country.
Tynchtykbek also emphasized that Uran should avoid bad company and not get involved with crime and easy money.
Principles of the "Uluu Kyrgyz" Club
Tynchtykbek applies a similar approach to all his athletes in the "Uluu Kyrgyz" club. He insists that fighters do not use their strength for selfish purposes: do not rob, do not seek easy money, and do not become a threat to society. Omurzakov strives to raise not just fighters, but people with principles.
"I ask my protégés to study, pray, and train. I find tournaments for my fighters myself. We are focused on developing them not just as athletes, but as individuals who are beneficial to the country," he emphasizes.
Myktybek's Weight Class: 70 or 77 kg
When asked about the preferred weight class for Myktybek Orolbay uulu, Tynchtykbek noted that the optimal option is welterweight (77 kg). He explained that in this weight class, it is easier for the athlete since there is no need for strict weight cutting. However, Myktybek himself prefers to compete in lightweight (70 kg), which the coach does not agree with.
Discipline and Raising Athletes
In response to a question about punishments, Tynchtykbek shared that he tries to avoid this in his practice. In the first months of working with new athletes, he focuses on upbringing rather than physical load.
During the first year, the coach does not "overload" his protégés and teaches them to be decent people. After this period, he begins to pay more attention to sports training. The coach emphasizes that his fighters do not smoke, do not drink, and do not associate with criminal circles. According to him, even those who did not become professional fighters are now serving in the police, special forces, and border troops, benefiting the country.
"My main goal is to do something useful for the state," he summarizes.
Collaboration with Team Alpha Male and Urijah Faber
Tynchtykbek also discussed the collaboration with Team Alpha Male coach Urijah Faber, noting that there are no disagreements between them. Urijah listens to his recommendations and prepares Myktybek and Uran according to his plan.
Although Myktybek prepared for the fight against Polish fighter Mateusz Rebecki according to the Team Alpha Male plan, this plan did not work. "In all other fights, Myktybek followed my plan and achieved success. Given this, we have no disputes about preparation," adds Omurzakov.
How the Team Got to the USA and Team Alpha Male Gym
Tynchtykbek shared that when they arrived in the USA, they were met by compatriots in Chicago, where they spent time training. However, he soon realized that there was no progress and decided to reach out to Urijah Faber directly.
Faber agreed to take Myktybek but on the condition of having housing and transportation, as this is necessary in California. Ultimately, the team contacted manager Vladislav Nikitin, who provided housing and a car. Tynchtykbek called Nikitin a "connecting bridge" that helped them get into the Team Alpha Male gym, where Myktybek immediately made a good impression on the coaches.
Emotions During Fights of Protégés in the UFC
On the New Requirements of the Streaming Service
Tynchtykbek expressed his opinion on the media side of the UFC, noting that he is not worried about the UFC's contract with the streaming service "Paramount Plus," which requires the league to have spectacular fighters. He discussed this with the fighters, and the team emphasized more spectacular fights.
At the same time, he emphasized that there will be no trash talk: athletes will not insult opponents for popularity. "Everything should happen in the octagon; the fights should be spectacular," he added, mentioning that in the last fight against Hermansson, they tried to focus on the beauty of the fight, and they succeeded.
Invitation to Arman Tsarukyan in Kyrgyzstan
Tynchtykbek shared plans to invite Arman Tsarukyan to Kyrgyzstan after a public invitation from Myktybek Orolbay uulu. They want to show him the traditions and culture of the country, as well as teach him to play kok-boru.
Although he noted that each fighter has their schedule and Tsarukyan is currently ranked first in the lightweight division and focused on his career, Tynchtykbek assured that after winning the title, they will definitely invite him again.
UFC Assessment
Speaking about the UFC, Tynchtykbek characterized this organization as the best fighting league in the world. He emphasized that thanks to the performances of Kyrgyz fighters, Kyrgyzstan is becoming known on the international stage and noted that the UFC provides excellent conditions for training and medical assistance.
"We are proud to represent our country through this organization," he concluded.
Dream of a UFC Tournament in Kyrgyzstan
Tynchtykbek also commented on the construction of the new sports complex "Bishkek Arena" for 51,000 spectators, which is expected to be completed this year, and expressed a desire to hold a UFC tournament in Kyrgyzstan. "This is my big dream. It will help increase interest in our country, develop tourism, and show the world our culture," he added.
A Long Path to the UFC
Tynchtykbek assured that his protégés' entry into the UFC is the result of many years of hard work and joint efforts. He began his journey toward this in 2012-2013 and emphasized that the team did not achieve success by chance, but through hard work.
Future UFC Stars from Kyrgyzstan
When asked about the presence of promising fighters in Kyrgyzstan who could make it to the UFC, Tynchtykbek answered positively. He noted that there are many talented athletes in different weight classes who perform successfully in other leagues. The coach also expressed his readiness to help fighters and their mentors in signing contracts with the UFC, noting that the doors of the "Uluu Kyrgyz" club are always open.
Gratitude to the President and Head of the GKNB
Discussing the gratitude that Myktybek expressed to President Sadyr Japarov and the head of the GKNB Kamchybek Tashiev after his last fight, Tynchtykbek noted that such words come from the heart, not with selfish intentions. "We do not do this for personal gain. We are grateful for the work and development of the country. It was a great opportunity to express our gratitude," he said.
Additionally, he mentioned that this year the World Nomad Games will take place in Kyrgyzstan, and the team would like to invite friends from other countries, including Urijah Faber.
Plans to Build His Own Gym
Tynchtykbek shared his plans to create his own training gym, already envisioning how it will look. However, he noted that last year the head of the GKNB, Kamchybek Tashiev, spoke out against MMA, which caused the implementation of this project to be put on hold. The coach expressed hope to convey to Tashiev the true goals of MMA and prove that this sport does not pose a threat to society.
Advice for Beginning Athletes
In conclusion of the interview, Tynchtykbek Omurzakov gave recommendations to those who are just starting their journey in MMA. He urged young fighters to develop and participate in Olympic sports, which lay a solid foundation for mixed martial arts. "By participating in Olympic disciplines, you will be able to glorify our country on the international stage," the coach summarized.
