Undefeated flyweight Muhammad Mokaev’s release from the UFC despite his perfect 7-0 record has sparked intense debate about the organization’s priorities. In a recent interview on the Mighty podcast with Demetrious Johnson, the 25-year-old opened up about his frustrations with how the UFC operates, suggesting the promotion values entertainment over athletic merit.
Mokaev’s departure from the UFC came as a surprise to many, especially considering his impressive resume. He had defeated notable contenders including Alex Perez, Tim Elliott, and Manel Kape, with several finishes along the way. However, his methodical combat style apparently didn’t align with what UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard was looking for in the flyweight division.
“Mick Maynard is the matchmaker of UFC flyweight division and basically the story is he asked Dana to keep the division. And he wanted more exciting fighters,” Mokaev explained. “Exciting fighters for UFC is strikers with finishes.”
Mokaev revealed he was explicitly told before his final bout against Manel Kape that his contract renewal depended entirely on his performance. “I’ve been told listen, you need to put performance. Like go out there and take the risks if you want new contract,” he said.
Despite winning the match, Mokaev’s decision victory wasn’t enough to secure his future with the organization.
Mokaev argued that the promotion’s emphasis on entertainment value over sporting achievement creates an unfair environment for competitors. “I don’t think it’s fair because we are mixed martial artists. And I was 23 years old when I was 7-0 in UFC. And they have to understand that I cannot be the best Mokaev, like flying knees and stuff, every fight.”
Mokaev continued: “Sometimes fight can be ugly. It depends on the opponents as well. Basically, I felt that I was gonna get cut.”
As Mokaev and Demetrious Johnson discussed, no other sport would cut its best athelete simply because their victories weren’t entertaining enough to watch. In legitimate sports, winning is the ultimate measure of success regardless of style.
Mokaev’s case becomes even more perplexing when considering his activity level and dedication. He competed seven times in just two years, including four matches in his first year alone.
“The more I fought the less performance I show, because the longer you’re in training camp, you just get tired of it,” he admitted.
Despite his frustrations with the UFC’s decision-making process, Mokaev has taken control of his career in remarkable ways. The contender revealed he’s remained a free agent, never signing exclusive contracts with other organizations, allowing him the flexibility to compete wherever opportunities arise. He’s competed for Brave CF and Karate Combat while maintaining his readiness for a potential UFC return.
More impressively, Mokaev has demonstrated remarkable financial acumen for someone his age. Coming from humble beginnings as a refugee who moved to the UK at age 12, he invested his UFC earnings in rental properties and is even building a training center in Dagestan.
“Right now, if I finish career today, DJ, I could just sit and enjoy the life,” he stated confidently.
This financial independence gives Mokaev leverage that most competitors lack. He can afford to be selective about his opportunities and focus on long-term goals rather than immediate financial needs.
