Muhammad Mokaev, known by the nickname “The Punisher,” is a notable figure in the UFC’s flyweight division, and he was celebrated for his undefeated record as of my last update. He is a fan favorite amongst UFC fans and could be back to fighting very soon.
Born on July 30, 2000, in Buynaksk, Republic of Dagestan, Russia, but fighting out of Manchester, England, Mokaev has a background in wrestling before transitioning to MMA. His amateur career was impressive, boasting a 23-0 record, which included winning multiple IMMAF world championships.
Mokaev turned professional in 2020, initially competing in promotions like Brave CF before making his UFC debut. His professional record before his UFC exit was 13-0-0, with notable victories through a mix of decisions and submissions, showcasing his versatility in finishing fights.
In the UFC, Mokaev quickly made a name for himself with his wrestling and submission skills. He won his debut fight and continued his winning streak, which included notable wins over fighters like Cody Durden, Charles Johnson, and Malcolm Gordon. His style is characterized by strong takedown attempts and ground control, often leading to submissions.
Following his victory at UFC 304 against Manel Kape in July 2024, Mokaev’s contract with the UFC concluded, and surprisingly, the UFC chose not to re-sign him. This decision was influenced by various factors, including Mokaev’s fighting style, which some criticized for being less entertaining due to its heavy reliance on wrestling, and off-cage incidents involving altercations with other fighters.
After his UFC exit, Mokaev announced his return to Brave CF, indicating his next fight would be in Abu Dhabi on October 25, 2024. This move suggests his intent to continue his career outside the UFC, possibly aiming to build his profile in other promotions before potentially returning to or negotiating with other major leagues like the PFL.
The decision by the UFC to not re-sign Mokaev sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts. While some criticized his fighting style for lacking excitement, others praised his skill, youth, and potential, arguing that his departure was a loss for the UFC’s flyweight division.
Mokaev has expressed a deep commitment to his sport, often highlighting his journey from wrestling to MMA due to his refugee status affecting his ability to compete internationally in wrestling. His approach to fighting is methodical, focusing on control and submission, which while effective, might not always align with the fanbase’s desire for stand-up exchanges.
Muhammad Mokaev’s career trajectory, especially his exit from the UFC, underscores the complex dynamics between fighter style, promotional expectations, and fan engagement in modern MMA. His story continues to unfold, with many in the MMA community watching to see how he fares in his next chapter outside of the UFC.
