Muhammad Mokaev maintained his undefeated record in his second bout since his departure from the UFC.
Despite extending his perfect Octagon record to 7-0 with a victory over Manel Kape, Mokaev`s aspirations for a title shot in the premier MMA organization were put on hold in 2024.
Citing circumstances outside the cage and reported disagreements with the matchmakers, Dana White announced that the UFC would release Mokaev by not extending his contract.
After initially seeking fan support for a quick return to the promotion, `The Punisher` has since committed himself to demonstrating his skills with impressive performances elsewhere as a way to earn his place back.
His most recent fight, aimed at regaining the UFC`s interest, took place this past weekend.
Mokaev Secures Decision Win Over Thomas Assis at 971 Fighting Championship
Mokaev`s first fight following his exit from the UFC occurred last December, marking a return to his former organization, Brave CF.
The British fighter, born in Dagestan, delivered a decisive performance against a short-notice opponent, submitting Joevincent So in less than two minutes.
Although he didn`t achieve a similar swift finish, Mokaev triumphed again in his initial fight of 2024, held on Saturday in Dubai.
Headlining 971 FC 2, `The Punisher` won by decision against Thomas Assis, a Brazilian competitor with experience in Jungle Fight who brought a 12-2 record into the bout.
Even though the fight was contested at bantamweight, Mokaev made several declarations asserting his dominance in the global flyweight division (125 pounds), specifically mentioning his earnings.
“15-0,” Mokaev posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Highest paid fighter at FLYWEIGHT in the world.
Just never give up, face the challenges and become stronger. Doesn’t matter what you’re going through in your life!”
In a separate post, Mokaev shifted his focus from income to fighting ability, making another bold statement.
“The best flyweight in the world.”
Mokaev Aims for UFC Comeback and Title Shot Against Alexandre Pantoja
Securing another victory outside the UFC has undoubtedly reinforced Mokaev`s ambition to return to the leading promotion in the sport.
Even prior to his win on June 14, Mokaev discussed his desire to be re-signed by Dana White, aiming for a potential, long-anticipated fight against current UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja in an interview with Bloody Elbow.
“I believe I just need to deliver a strong striking performance and secure a spectacular finish, and people are already starting to talk about my return to the UFC. Naturally, my dream is to become the best in the world.
Pantoja is 36 years old, I’m 24, I’m in my prime. Recall, I was defeating fighters in their prime when I was only 22. Now, I feel significantly stronger and better.
Everything I`ve experienced in my career has strengthened me mentally. I am now prepared to challenge for the belt.”
Meanwhile, Pantoja`s immediate focus is on his title defense against Kai Kara-France. `The Cannibal` is scheduled to defend his belt in the co-main event of UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas.
