Disclosed his motive behind leaving Ultimate Fighting Championship
UFC Declines to Renew Contract with Rising Star Muhammad Mokaev
Muhammad Mokaev, a promising young talent in the world of MMA, has found himself without a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) after the organization decided not to renew his deal. The primary reason for this decision, according to reports, is that Mokaev did not meet the UFC's performance-based expectations, specifically in terms of taking risks to finish fights.
Mokaev himself has confirmed that he was told to deliver more dynamic performances and take risks, such as going for finishes, if he wanted a new contract. Despite his impressive 7-0 record in the UFC at the age of 23, the UFC reportedly expected more spectacular finishes, like flying knees or fight-ending moves, from the British fighter.
In his last UFC fight against Manel Kape, Mokaev had the opportunity to secure a knockout but failed to do so, resulting in a decision win. This, combined with his perceived lack of aggressive finishing, led to the UFC's decision not to renew his contract.
Mokaev, however, feels that the UFC's expectations were unfair, as he had maintained an unblemished record throughout his UFC tenure. He also turned down offers to re-enter via the UFC Contender Series twice, preferring to fight directly on the main UFC roster rather than proving himself again in the series.
Since leaving the UFC, Mokaev made his debut in 971 FC in June this year, where he won a decision against Thomas Assis. Despite not signing a new contract with any major MMA organization since his departure from the UFC, Mokaev remains optimistic about his future in the sport.
In a conversation with Demetrius Johnson, also known as "The Punisher," Mokaev admitted that he had lost his initial hunger and focused solely on the title, which may have contributed to the UFC's decision not to renew his contract. He also expressed that his style had become less flashy, which could have influenced the UFC's expectations for more dynamic performances.
As Mokaev continues his journey in the world of MMA, fans will be eagerly waiting to see if he can regain his form and secure a new contract with a major organization. With his talent and determination, there's no doubt that Mokaev has what it takes to make a comeback and prove the UFC wrong.
Bookmakers are placing bets on Mokaev joining other sports-based mixed-martial-arts promotions, given his recent departure from the UFC and optimistic outlook for his future in the sport.
Several bookmakers have suggested that the British fighter might find success in organizations like Bellator or ONE Championship, where high-risk, high-reward fighting styles could potentially earn him a contract and a shot at the title.
