- British UFC star Muhamad Mokaev is one of the top flyweight contenders
- Mokaev claims he's aiming for the title after his win in March
- The 23-year-old spoke to MailSport to discuss his future in the division.
Muhamad Mokaev is not only undefeated in the UFC, he also looked unstoppable.
The 23-year-old British fighter recently improved his professional record to 12-0 with a dominant victory over Alex Perez at UFC Fight Night in March.
Each victory showcased his ever-evolving skill set and unwavering focus on the ultimate prize: UFC flyweight gold.
Mokaev's rise through the ranks has been meteoric. Since debuting in March 2022 and defeating Perez by submitting Cody Darden with a first-round guillotine choke, he has dismantled every opponent put in front of him.
But despite his rise, the flyweight title spot is currently locked in an upcoming matchup between champion Alexandre Pantoja and challenger Steve Arseg, who are set to fight for the belt at UFC 301 in May. occupied by
Mokaev finds himself waiting on the side, ready to take advantage of any opportunity, and the 23-year-old prospect remains unfazed by the possibility of a future matchup.
Speaking exclusively to Mail Sport, he said: “Winning against Pantoja or Erceg doesn't matter to me.” This organization only attracts talented people, so I don't chase easy battles. ”
“I had Cody Durden in my debut and he was on a 4-0 streak after me. And then I saw Jafel Filho secure back-to-back first-round submissions. Ta.
“Tim Elliott won by submission after me. They're all on winning streaks, so I don't think I came through the easy path like Erceg,” Mokaev pointed out.
Mokaev's confidence is justified. He didn't just win the fight. He has dominated them and leaves little doubt about his potential.
Many have pointed out that Australian fighter Erceg has only three fights in the UFC that led to a title shot.
'What do you think about that? Why do we need to create such a ranking if we do not follow it, ”said Mokayev. “I was chasing guys at the top of the rankings. Top guys. I could have been chasing Matt Schnell!
“But I chose Tim Elliott and Alex Perez over Matt Schnell. And I think they're a bigger challenge than Dvorak and Matt Schnell, which Erceg beat. I definitely deserve it. [a title shot] than elseg.
Mokaev's argument is persuasive. He aggressively took on tougher competition and defeated the veterans. Although this strategy was risky, it certainly strengthened his case for the title.
It looked like Mokaev was set for glory, with Pantoja previously suggesting the British fighter should be his next challenger, but that sentiment appears to have dissipated.
Mokaev continued: “In an interview he said that the fight with Erceg was tougher than fighting.'' [Brandon] Is it Royval? [Brandon] Moreno, he didn't even say my name, but before I fought Perez, he said if Mokaev wins, Mokaev will be next. ”
However, Mokaev himself admits that there is room for improvement in recent victories. “Well, I'm happy with the win, but I'm not really happy with the performance,” he admitted.
“I know we could have done better, but it is what it is. We just keep moving. Undefeated. I think I probably underestimated Alex. The first round was very easy. So it was near the end of the round and I could have almost finished.”
As the flyweight division crowns its next champion, Mokaev is focused on his development, honing his skills and waiting for the inevitable UFC gold medal.
One thing is for sure: The future of the flyweight division is bright, and Muhammad Mokaev sits firmly at its center.
