Muhammad Mokaev’s Appeal to Dana White: The Quest for a UFC Comeback

Muhammad Mokaev, once a rising star in the UFC flyweight division, finds himself at a crossroads after his recent, somewhat contentious departure from the promotion. Despite the turbulence surrounding his exit, Mokaev remains resolute in his desire to return to the UFC and is even willing to fight for free to demonstrate his commitment.

Mokaev’s Controversial Exit from the UFC

The recent upheaval in Mokaev’s career began with his unexpected drop from a title eliminator position on the main card of UFC 304 to the early prelims, and eventually, his removal from the roster altogether. This dramatic shift in circumstances came after Mokaev’s unanimous decision victory over Manel Kape, a win that extended his unbeaten streak to seven fights. The abrupt nature of Mokaev’s exit has left many puzzled, not least the fighter himself.

In a heartfelt plea, Mokaev has reached out to Dana White, offering to fight for free as a testament to his dedication. “I told Hunter Campbell I’m ready to pay for whatever I’ve done at the hotel and fight my next fight for free. I want to come back to UFC and hopefully I will be back,” Mokaev stated. His willingness to forgo a purse underscores the depth of his commitment and his eagerness to rectify any perceived missteps.

Past Conduct and Ongoing Dedication

Reflecting on his past, Mokaev has acknowledged areas where he could have handled matters better. He described his past conduct as “unprofessional” but also framed it as a learning experience. “I think it’s unprofessional, but it’s something that was in my heart for a long time – I have to get rid of it… I think I’ve taken a big lesson here,” he admitted.

Despite the controversies, Mokaev has not shied away from highlighting his sacrifices for the UFC. He recalled a challenging episode earlier this year: “I fought Alex Perez just days after being allegedly attacked by Kape at the UFC Performance Institute. He headbutted me at the PI five days before my fight with Perez. I had a big cut and I still fought. I never pulled out, never missed weight, I still turn up and show up every single fight.”

These anecdotes serve as a testament to resilience and his dedication to the sport, reinforcing his argument that he is deserving of another chance within the UFC.

Denial of PFL Speculation

Amidst the speculation about Mokaev’s future, rumours swirled regarding a potential move to the Professional Fighters League (PFL). These rumours were promptly addressed by PFL President Ray Sefo, who dismissed any interest in Mokaev. In response, Mokaev has firmly denied any discussions with the PFL. “I think there’s been a misunderstanding between Dana and me,” Mokaev explained. “I never spoke to the PFL… I asked for a new contract because I want to fight the best in the world.”

Mokaev also voiced criticism towards PFL President Sefo and veteran manager Ali Abdelaziz, suggesting that there might have been behind-the-scenes manoeuvrings affecting his career trajectory. “I feel like he’s done something behind my back… something that had to come out,” Mokaev asserted.

Future Prospects and the UFC’s Next Steps

As Mokaev contemplates his next steps, his primary focus remains on securing a return to the UFC. The fighter’s ongoing commitment and willingness to make amends for past mistakes reflect his determination to prove himself as a top contender. The UFC’s response to Mokaev’s appeal will be crucial in determining his immediate future.

For now, Mokaev’s future hangs in the balance as he awaits a decision from UFC management. His appeal to return, coupled with his willingness to fight for free, highlights his deep-seated desire to continue competing at the highest level. Whether the UFC will grant him a second chance remains to be seen, but Mokaev’s dedication and resilience are clear.