More than two years after UFC release, Mokaev still seeking a way back
Muhammad Mokaev, cut by the UFC in July 2024 despite a seven-fight winning streak, says he still doesn't understand the decision and accuses the promotion of shifting goalposts. He continues competing elsewhere while insisting he remains the world's best flyweight.
More than two years have passed since UFC president Dana White announced the promotion would not renew Muhammad Mokaev's contract, yet the Russian-born British fighter says he is still without a clear explanation.
The release came the same night Mokaev extended his winning streak to seven fights with a unanimous decision victory over Manuel Kape at UFC 304 in Manchester. It had been suggested that Mokaev's conduct before the fight — including confrontations with his Portuguese opponent at the fighters' hotel and at the weigh-ins — may have played a role. Mokaev disputes this, arguing that a fighter seen as a behavioural problem would not have been allowed seven fights and two contract renewals.
Staying active outside the UFC
Since his release, Mokaev has fought eight times, finishing opponents via chokes, body kicks, head kicks and punches, and has won titles with Brave CF and ACBJJ. Despite this activity, UFC matchmakers have not brought him back into the fold.
Mokaev says UFC executive Hunter Campbell made him a promise the organisation has not honoured, describing the past two years as wasted. He also revealed the UFC offered him $10,000 to compete in a UFC BJJ event against bantamweight champion Mikey Musumeci; he was open to the fight only if a new contract followed, an offer he says did not materialise.
This weekend in Los Angeles, current flyweight champion Joshua Van defends his title in a rematch against Alexandre Pantoja — a milestone many once expected Mokaev to reach first. Despite the setback, Mokaev maintains he is the best flyweight in the world and believes continued success will eventually force the UFC to bring him back.
