In the world of mixed martial arts, where every move counts, Mohammad Mokaev finds himself in an unexpected position after ending his contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). This fighter, with a clean record (13-0 MMA), never thought that his unconvincing victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304 in Manchester would be his last fight under this banner.
Behind the Scenes: Why Didn’t the UFC Re-sign Mokaev?
Dana White, President of the UFC, spoke candidly after the conclusion of UFC 304, announcing that there were no plans to re-sign Mohammad Mokaev. White pointed out that the UFC matchmakers were not fans of Mokaev’s fighting style, which raises many questions about the true reasons behind this decision. Were there tactical reasons beyond Mokaev’s fighting style? Or were there other factors related to his personality or commercial appeal? This decision sparked widespread discussion, especially after Mokaev apologized and offered to fight for free to stay in the UFC, an offer that was quickly rejected.
White was clear in his response to this offer, stating: “No one fights for free. People can say whatever they want about how we pay, but no one is going to fight for free.” Was this refusal indicative of a deeper issue in the relationship between Mokaev and the UFC?
Return to BRAVE CF: A New Opportunity or a Step Back?
While many expected Mohammad Mokaev to eventually sign with major organizations like the Professional Fighters League (PFL) or Bellator, Mokaev chose to return to his roots by rejoining BRAVE CF. This return was confirmed by BRAVE CF President Mohammad Shahid, who did not hide his excitement about having Mokaev back in the arena.
Shahid, in his statements, was firm, expressing his dissatisfaction with the treatment Mokaev received at the UFC, saying: “There has been an unfair persecution of his character and attempts to use defamation to provoke personal vendetta, and it’s clear there are no obvious reasons preventing the best athlete in the world from competing.”
But will this return be just a pit stop before Mokaev tries to make a comeback to the big stage in the UFC? Or will BRAVE CF become the final destination for this ambitious fighter?
What Does the Future Hold?
Only time will tell whether this second stint for Mohammad Mokaev at BRAVE CF will lead to new successes or perhaps a spectacular return to the UFC. The questions remain open: Can Mokaev regain his shine and establish himself as one of the best flyweight fighters in the world? Will BRAVE CF be the stage where he achieves what eluded him in the UFC?
There is no doubt that the spotlight will remain on Mohammad Mokaev, and all mixed martial arts fans will eagerly await what this young star has in store for the future.
