Muhammad Mokaev is encountering additional obstacles. Mokaev is widely seen as one of the best flyweight talents globally. His win against Manel Kape improved his UFC record to 7-0. However, after exiting the UFC, Mokaev was often linked to the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Interestingly, it seems like the promotion has bailed out Mokaev’s prospects of securing his future with them.
After securing a victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304, Mokaev was released by the UFC. Following this setback, his prospects for future employment dwindled. Recently, at a press conference, the President of the PFL, Ray Sefo, made a clear statement about Mokaev. He stated that the organization was not looking to enlist the services of the talented flyweight.
Apparently, he’s just a pain in the ass to deal with. And so, no, we’re not interested…
Ray Sefo via PFL Nashville presser
Allegations have surfaced suggesting that while Mokaev was still under contract with the UFC, he had discussions with the PFL. Nevertheless, Mokaev’s manager came out refuting these allegations, which apparently angered Dana White.
During his UFC tenure, Mokaev had significant victories over ranked competitors Tim Elliott, Alex Perez, and Cody Durden. However, UFC 304 also served as the last fight on Mokaev’s contract. UFC CEO Dana White indicated after the event that the UFC had no intention of re-signing Mokaev.
The buildup to UFC 304 did not work in Mokaev’s favor, as the two fighters engaged in a physical altercation at the UFC Performance Institute. Interestingly, they had another altercation at the host hotel during the fight week in Manchester. However, Mokaev openly admitted that he tricked Kape into taking a photo together. With that, he sucker-punched Kape and ignited a chaotic scene. Per reports, these off-the-cage miscreant activities are what the UFC disliked about Mokaev.
Muhammad Mokaev reacts to PFL President Ray Sefo’s statement
Muhammad Mokaev, who turned 24 on Sunday, has gained recognition as a top contender in the UFC’s flyweight division. However, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) does not have a flyweight division in its season format, with the lightest male weight class being featherweight. Additionally, Bellator, which is owned by PFL, only features divisions that are as light as bantamweight.
Ray Sefo and Muhammad Mokaev (via Instagram)The criteria in these promotions are quite unlikely for a flyweight fighter like Mokaev. Interestingly, after PFL President Ray Sefo stated that the organization was not interested in signing him. Mokaev promptly responded on his social media platforms, expressing amusement at Sefo’s remarks.
Of course you gonna say this.. I never accepted you deals. Nice move.
Muhammad Mokaev via X
Meanwhile, Mokaev’s exit from the promotion has cleared the way for other flyweights like Tatsuro Taira and Steve Erceg. Both these men have a fight coming up very shortly. Taira and Erceg might put themselves in the title contention with a victory in those fights. Hopefully, another star in the division will emerge, pumping life into the weight class.
