British fighter Mohammed Mokaev has spoken out about his unceremonious dismissal from UFC despite extending his winning streak with a bout in Manchester on Saturday.
The Russian-born Mokaev improved to 13-0 in his mixed martial arts career with a unanimous decision victory over Manel Kape in a flyweight bout at UFC 304 on Co-op Live.
It was a hugely satisfying result for Mokaev, who had clashed with Cape in the run up to the fight and was involved in an ugly brawl at the players' hotel on the eve of the match in Manchester.
He has won all seven of his fights since joining the UFC in 2022.
But in a shocking move, UFC president Dana White dropped Mokaev from the promotion during the post-event press conference.
When asked if the Dagestan-born fighter would remain with the UFC after his consecutive points decision wins, White said: “Matchmakers are not fans of him for a variety of reasons, but that's [of his fighting style]… There are a lot of people in this business looking to take down people.
“There are a lot of fighters who play that style, but that's not all.
“He's no longer under contract. I think the PFL is going to get a great unbeaten fighter. I wish him the best of luck.”
Speaking on X, Mokaev expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from fans following his shock decision.
“Thank you to all my true fans who have supported me since the beginning! Glad to meet you all,” he posted.
In another post, she added: “Allah gives me strength in every situation in my life! Alhamdulillah.”
At the post-fight press conference, Mokaev explained why he took on Kape for this bout after footage surfaced of Kape punching his opponent at a hotel before the fight.
Mohammed Mokaev has been fired by UFC (Image: Getty)
“This was important to me. I met with Manel five days before the fight with Alex Perez. [Kape]He headbutted me. If you look at my fight with Alex Perez, I [a] “I had to get eight stitches for the cuts, and I also had to get stitches in my eyebrows,” Mokaev explained.
“When I fought Alex Perez, people thought I was a boring wrestler. But I was [not risk] Opening my incision… [an] In an interview he said that when he came to Manchester [was] I'll do it again.
“So I couldn't get close to him at the hotel, so I said to him, 'Come on out.' [a] Draw a picture for me.’ And he came over and I dropped him.
“I had no choice. I couldn't let myself be bullied. I had a tough upbringing and a tough life. I don't tolerate bullies.”
