Undefeated Star Muhammad Mokaev Exposes UFC, Declares: “The UFC Is Not a Sport Anymore”

In a direct and powerful statement, former UFC flyweight contender Muhammad Mokaev has declared, “The UFC is not a sport anymore,” following his controversial departure from the promotion. Despite holding a flawless 7-0 record inside the Octagon, the UFC decided not to re-sign Mokaev after his contract expired. This decision has ignited a fiery debate within the MMA community about the promotion’s priorities, with Mokaev’s continued success outside the UFC serving as a stark example of the widening divide between athlete potential and the organisation’s business decisions.

Mokaev’s UFC Departure and Its Fallout

Mokaev’s exit from the UFC sent shockwaves through the flyweight division. After a unanimous decision victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304, which brought his professional record to 13-0 (with a no-contest), UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the promotion would not be renewing his contract. White cited “many different reasons” for the decision, implying that Mokaev’s behind-the-scenes behaviour and pre-fight antics had created frustrations among matchmakers.

Mokaev’s assertion that the “UFC is not a sport anymore” encapsulates the frustration of many fighters who feel that the organisation prioritises public drama and marketability over pure athletic skill. This sentiment has been echoed by former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson, with whom Mokaev shared his thoughts on the matter.

Life After the UFC: Mokaev’s Undefeated Run

Despite the setback, Mokaev has not slowed down. He quickly re-signed with BRAVE Combat Federation, where he started his professional career, and has since continued his winning streak. His professional record has grown to an impressive 15-0 with a no-contest. His recent victories include a quick first-round submission against Joevincent So and a unanimous decision win against Thomas Assis at 971 Fighting Championship, proving that his elite-level skills remain intact and can thrive in other promotions.

Mokaev’s success outside the UFC serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the idea that a fighter’s career ends with a departure from the promotion. His journey highlights the potential for athletes to find success and financial stability in other organisations, challenging the UFC’s long-standing dominance and its sometimes-controversial matchmaking decisions.

Implications for the Future of MMA

Mokaev’s story is a cautionary tale for aspiring UFC fighters, suggesting that a pristine record alone may not guarantee a long-term future with the organisation. The pressure to conform to promotional expectations and a lack of tolerance for behind-the-scenes issues could lead to the exclusion of talented athletes. As other fighters and pundits, including former champions like Aljamain Sterling, have criticised the UFC’s decision, the debate over the promotion’s values is likely to intensify. Ultimately, the future of the UFC may depend on its ability to balance its identity as a global entertainment company with its core principles as a competitive sport.