Without question, Muhammad Mokaev could have easily established himself as an iconic persona in the UFC if he had demonstrated more steadfastness. Following his departure from the UFC, Mokaev has been challenging various UFC fighters while exploring opportunities for a comeback in the organization led by Dana White. His latest competitor, Kai Kara-France, labeled Mokaev as an uninspiring combatant, which prompted a swift retort from Mokaev.
Mokaev pointed out to Kara-France that his relatively short two-year tenure in UFC carries more significance than Kara-France’s eight-year journey. Defending his style, which has been described as ‘boring’ by some, Mokaev argued that wrestling and tactical combat were integral aspects of the sport and not solely about high-octane action.
Kara-France’s critique of Mokaev was notably harsh, targeting specific instances from his fights. He mentioned an incident when Mokaev decided to pull down his adversary’s pants during a game, arguing that such actions were unprofessional and unacceptable, and certainly not an act that spectators expect to see.
Kara-France went further, saying that fans don’t pay to see fighters engage in unnecessary physicality on the ground, using a derogatory term to describe Mokaev’s tactics. In response, Mokaev turned the tables on Kara-France, highlighting his own superior record of wins.
Muhammad Mokaev fired back magnifying that his record in the UFC was more impressive than Kara-France’s, despite being there for only two years and having seven bouts. He stressed that he has accomplished more finishes than Kara-France, even while grappling with two considerable injuries.
Mokaev, also known as ‘The Punisher’, proudly announced that he has managed four finishes during his UFC tenure. He then compared his accomplishment with Kara-France’s record over eight years in UFC, which includes a majority of victories through decisions and a mere three finishes.
Moreover, Mokaev got his claws into ‘Don’t Blink’, enouraging him to assess their records properly, and further claimed that Manel Kape was the real threat to Kara-France in the flyweight division. This response from Mokaev was a clear demonstration of his eagerness to lock horns with his rivals.
Following UFC 310, Alexandre Pantoja appeared to be running out of formidable challenges within the flyweight division. Consequently, discussions were rife about the potential return of Mokaev, with some even suggesting that he should square up against Pantoja for the title.
Bisping, the propeller of the idea, believes that this face-off would be a refreshing and thrilling encounter capable of stirring the division. He acknowledges Mokaev’s controversial conduct, but is confident in the young fighter’s potential for growth and maturity.
Bisping views this potential match-up between Pantoja and Mokaev as an ideal blend of contrasting styles with the power to invigorate the flyweight division. It could be a game-changing fight that could only serve to heighten the excitement and intrigue within the division.
While Mokaev’s return remains uncertain, anticipation is building within MMA circles. Mokaev was formerly seen as a promising up-and-comer in the flyweight division, and his potential return could drastically alter the dynamics of the arena.
Mokaev was once undefeated and widely regarded as a menacing contender in the flyweight division. His possible return to the UFC could breathe new life into the weight class and pose intriguing challenges for his former competition.
There’s no denying the potential excitement and renewed competition that Mokaev’s reappearance would bring. Many in the MMA community are eagerly awaiting this development, which could add a new, invigorating storyline to the flyweight division.
Mokaev’s potential return, coupled with the possibility of competing against Pantoja for the championship title, has caught the attention of many. Bisping’s suggestion has certainly spurred conversations and added a sense of expectation and buzz in the sporting world.
Undoubtedly, the return of Mokaev, a once dominant force in the division who was unfortunately side-tracked due to his behavior, provides an opportunity for upset, excitement, and a genuine challenge to the established order of the lightweight division.