:Muhammad Mokaev
{{Short description|British mixed martial artist (born 2000)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Infobox martial artist
| name = Muhammad Mokaev
| native_name =
| other_names = The Punisher
| image = Возвращение на родину Мухаммад Мокаев ЛЮДИ СПОРТА 1-20.png
| image_size =
| alt =
| caption = Mokaev in 2022
| birth_name =
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|2000|07|30}}
| birth_place = Buynaksk, Dagestan, Russia
| residence = Manchester, England
| nationality = British
| height = 5 ft 9 in
| weight = 125 lb
| trainer =
| weight_class = Bantamweight (2016–2020)
Flyweight (2021–present)
| style = Freestyle wrestling, Submission grappling
| reach_footnote =
| stance =
| fighting_out_of = Manchester, England
| team = KHK MMA
Aspire Combat Sports Academy (2015–present){{Cite web|title=Aspire Combat Sports Academy {{!}} Gym Page|url=https://www.tapology.com/gyms/7743-aspire-combat-sports-academy|access-date=2021-11-23|website=Tapology|language=en|archive-date=18 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118205036/https://www.tapology.com/gyms/7743-aspire-combat-sports-academy|url-status=live}}
| rank = Purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
| years_active = 2020–present
| mma_kowin = 2
| mma_subwin = 7
| mma_decwin = 5
| mma_koloss =
| mma_subloss =
| mma_decloss =
| mma_draw =
| mma_nc = 1
| am_win = 23
| am_kowin = 4
| am_subwin = 3
| am_loss =
| am_koloss =
| am_subloss =
| am_draw =
| am_nc =
| relatives =
| occupation =
| university =
| url =
| sherdog = 236141
| footnotes =
| updated =
| medaltemplates =
{{MedalCountry | {{ENG}} }}
{{Medal|Sport | Men's freestyle wrestling}}
{{Medal|Competition| British Championships }}
{{Medal|Silver| 2018 Manchester | 65 kg }}
{{Medal|Bronze| 2016 Bolton | 65 kg }}
{{Medal|Competition| English Nationals }}
{{Medal|Gold| 2019 Salford | 61 kg }}
{{Medal|Silver| 2018 Salford | 61 kg }}
{{Medal|Sport | Men's submission grappling}}
{{MedalCompetition|ADCC UK Championships}}
{{MedalGold|2019 Manchester | 65 kg (INT)}}
{{MedalGold|2018 Manchester | 65 kg (INT)}}
| show-medals = yes
}}
Muhammad Mokaev (Russian: Мухаммад Мокаев; born 30 July 2000) is a British professional mixed martial artist and former freestyle wrestler. He currently competes in the Flyweight division of Brave Combat Federation.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2024/8/24/24227463/muhammad-mokaev-re-signs-with-brave-cf-after-exiting-the-ufc|title=Muhammad Mokaev re-signs with Brave CF after exiting UFC|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Damon Martin|date=2024-08-24|access-date=2024-08-24}} He formerly competed in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Background
Mokaev was born in Buynaksk, Dagestan, Russia, to a Kumyk family. At the age of 12, he and his father moved to England, shortly after his mother had died.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/53552360 |title=Muhammad Mokaev: Refugee on course to become youngest UFC champion |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |last2=Gulrajani |first2=Alex |publisher=BBC Sport |date=30 July 2020 |access-date=22 November 2021 |archive-date=15 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215162657/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/53552360 |url-status=live }} They lived in a refugee centre in Liverpool upon their arrival, being given £5 a day. Within a month they were moved to Wigan.{{Cite web |last=Davies |first=Harry |date=2022-03-31 |title=Britain's rising UFC star Muhammad Mokaev details early days as refugee in UK |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/mma/ufc-muhammad-mokaev-refugee-dagestan-26587530 |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=mirror |language=en |archive-date=22 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221022181354/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/mma/ufc-muhammad-mokaev-refugee-dagestan-26587530 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Ben Morse, Alex |date=2020-12-21 |title=The refugee following in the footsteps of Khabib Nurmagomedov |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/21/sport/muhammad-mokaev-refugee-mma-dagestan-cmd-spt-intl/index.html |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=22 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221022181354/https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/21/sport/muhammad-mokaev-refugee-mma-dagestan-cmd-spt-intl/index.html |url-status=live }}
He had tried his hand in freestyle wrestling in Dagestan, but only started enjoying it when he joined the Manchester Wrestling Club in 2013 and started competing.{{Cite news |title=From refugee to youngest UFC champion? |language=en-GB |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/53552360 |access-date=2022-05-04 |archive-date=16 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416115018/https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/53552360 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2021-01-10 |title='New Khabib' Muhammad Mokaev set to debut in UFC this year with unbeaten record |url=https://talksport.com/sport/mma/815341/new-khabib-nurmagomedov-ufc-muhammad-mokaev/ |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=talkSPORT |language=en-US |archive-date=18 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518072100/https://talksport.com/sport/mma/815341/new-khabib-nurmagomedov-ufc-muhammad-mokaev/ |url-status=live }} Mokaev is twice a British Championship medallist and an English National champion (twice medallist), and has competed at the 2021 U23 World Championships finishing 5th and the 2021 Ion Corneanu & Ladislau Simon Memorial.{{Cite web |title=2018 English Junior Championships |url=https://britishwrestling.org/events/2018-english-junior-championships/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180129/https://britishwrestling.org/events/2018-english-junior-championships/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=2019 English Senior Open Championships (FS & WW) |url=https://britishwrestling.org/events/2019-english-senior-open-championships-fs-ww/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180130/https://britishwrestling.org/events/2019-english-senior-open-championships-fs-ww/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=British Senior Freestyle Wrestling Championships 2019 |url=https://britishwrestling.org/events/british-senior-freestyle-wrestling-championships-2019/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180133/https://britishwrestling.org/events/british-senior-freestyle-wrestling-championships-2019/ |url-status=live }} In the junior level, he is a four-time British Champion, winning the tournament from 2014 to 2017, and also competed at the 2017 European Championships.{{Cite web |title=2014 British Junior Championships |url=https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2014-british-junior-championships/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180131/https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2014-british-junior-championships/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=2015 British Junior Championships |url=https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2015-british-junior-championships/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180128/https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2015-british-junior-championships/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=2016 English Junior and Senior Championships |url=https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2016-english-junior-and-senior-championships/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180132/https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2016-english-junior-and-senior-championships/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=2017 British Juniors |url=https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2017-british-juniors/ |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=British Wrestling |language=en-GB |archive-date=29 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629183820/https://britishwrestling.org/archive/competitions-events-and-results/2017-british-juniors/ |url-status=live }}
Mokaev picked up Brazilian jiu-jitsu and submission wrestling as well, becoming a two-time ADCC UK champion (intermediate division) in the latter.{{Cite web |title=Results, ADCC UK British Open 2018 |url=https://smoothcomp.com/sv/event/925/results |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=Smoothcomp |language=sv |archive-date=2 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102043753/https://smoothcomp.com/sv/event/925/results |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Results, ADCC UK British Open 2019 |url=https://smoothcomp.com/fr/event/2662/results |access-date=2022-05-05 |website=Smoothcomp |language=fr |archive-date=5 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505180128/https://smoothcomp.com/fr/event/2662/results |url-status=live }}
Mixed martial arts career
=Early career=
Mokaev made his amateur MMA debut in November 2015 and compiled four wins by the end of the following year in 2016. On 11 February 2017, Mokaev became the flyweight champion for Taking
FC, defeating his opponent via unanimous decision. He was 16 years old at the time.{{cite news|author=|title=Liverpool's Lawrence Fitzpatrick overcomes the odds to beat mma veteran web|url=https://www.itv.com/news/granada/2017-02-12/liverpools-lawrence-fitzpatrick-overcomes-the-odds-to-beat-mma-veteran/|date=12 February 2017|access-date=20 May 2020|archive-date=18 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118210820/https://www.itv.com/news/granada/2017-02-12/liverpools-lawrence-fitzpatrick-overcomes-the-odds-to-beat-mma-veteran|url-status=live}} Over the next four years he would go undefeated, finishing off as champion as IMMAF Amateur junior bantamweight champion in 2018 and 2019. Originally Mokaev started training in MMA at Kaobon MMA gym in Liverpool under the tutelage of Colin Heron. He worked and earned his gym membership by cleaning mats at the gym.
=Mixed martial arts=
==Brave Combat Federation==
Mokaev debuted on 1 August 2020, against Glenn McVeigh, in Sweden under the Brave Combat Federation 37 card. He scored a unanimous decision victory.{{Cite web |date=2020-08-02 |title=BRAVE CF 37 results: Muhammad Mokaev dominates arch-rival McVeigh, wants spot in Poland card |url=https://www.fightmag.com.au/2020/08/02/brave-cf-37-results-muhammad-mokaev-dominates-arch-rival-mcveigh-wants-spot-in-poland-card/ |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=FIGHTMAG |language=en-US |archive-date=18 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118205048/https://www.fightmag.com.au/2020/08/02/brave-cf-37-results-muhammad-mokaev-dominates-arch-rival-mcveigh-wants-spot-in-poland-card/ |url-status=live }} He received a "Fight of the Night Bonus" for this fight.{{Cite web |title=Mokaev vs McVeigh bout gets Fight of the Night honors at BRAVE CF 37 |date=4 August 2020 |url=https://www.fightbookmma.com/mokaev-vs-mcveigh-bout-gets-fight-of-the-night-honors-at-brave-cf-37/ |url-status=live |access-date=9 June 2022 |archive-date=18 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518160655/https://www.fightbookmma.com/mokaev-vs-mcveigh-bout-gets-fight-of-the-night-honors-at-brave-cf-37/ }}
His third fight was against Jamie Kelly, from Rochdale, fighting out of SBG gym under Martin Stapleton. He won the fight via a rear-naked choke, and received a "Fight of the Night" bonus.{{Cite web |title=Muhammad Mokaev's victory over Jamie Kelly earns fight of the night honors at BRAVE CF 43 |date=6 October 2020 |url=https://www.fightbookmma.com/muhammad-mokaevs-victory-over-jamie-kelly-earns-fight-of-the-night-honors-at-brave-cf-43/ |url-status=live |access-date=9 June 2022 |archive-date=14 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220814002550/https://www.fightbookmma.com/muhammad-mokaevs-victory-over-jamie-kelly-earns-fight-of-the-night-honors-at-brave-cf-43/ }}
His next fight was against Dave Jones under the Celtic Gladiator 28 promotion in Glasgow and he won the fight in the third round.{{Cite web |title=Muhammad Mokaev vs. Dave Jones, Celtic Gladiator 28 {{!}} MMA Bout |url=https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/bouts/537198-celtic-gladiator-28-muhammad-the-punisher-mokaev-vs-dave-scrappy-jones |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=Tapology |language=en |archive-date=2 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102201142/https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/bouts/537198-celtic-gladiator-28-muhammad-the-punisher-mokaev-vs-dave-scrappy-jones |url-status=live }}
Mokaev faced Abdul Hussein at the Brave Combat Federation 49. It was described as "15 minutes of non-stop scrambling". The fight was won by decision by Mokaev.{{Citation |first1=Mokoa |last1=Goble |publisher=OvertimeHeroics.net |url=https://www.overtimeheroics.net/2021/03/27/brave-cf-49-mokaev-vs-hussein/ |title=Brave CF 49: Muhammad Mokaev Defeats Abdul Hussein in Thrilling FOTY Candidate |date=27 March 2021 |access-date=2021-11-05 |archive-date=10 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211110075028/https://www.overtimeheroics.net/2021/03/27/brave-cf-49-mokaev-vs-hussein/ |url-status=live }}
His fight with Ibragim Nazurov at Brave Combat Federation 51 was ruled as a no-contest due to a low kick when Ibragim Nazurov was deemed unable to continue after absorbing a first round low blow.{{citation needed|date=October 2022}}
He faced Blaine O'Driscoll at Brave Combat Federation 54 and won the fight via rear-naked choke in the second round.{{Citation |first1=Michael |last1=Clifton |publisher=lowkickmma.com |url=https://www.lowkickmma.com/brave-cf-54-full-results/ |title=BRAVE CF 54: Full Results |date=26 September 2021 |access-date=2021-11-05 |archive-date=10 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211110075034/https://www.lowkickmma.com/brave-cf-54-full-results/ |url-status=live }}
==Ultimate Fighting Championship==
Mokaev made his UFC debut against Cody Durden on 19 March 2022.{{Cite web|date=2021-12-07|title=Muhammad Mokaev vs. Cody Durden on tap for UFC Fight Night on March 19|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/12/ufc-fight-night-muhammad-mokaev-vs-cody-durden-booked-march-19|access-date=2021-12-09|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=8 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208171532/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/12/ufc-fight-night-muhammad-mokaev-vs-cody-durden-booked-march-19|url-status=live}} He won the fight via guillotine choke in round one.{{Cite web |last=Bitter |first=Shawn |date=2022-03-19 |title=UFC London: Muhammad Mokaev Finishes Cody Durden In 58 Seconds |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/03/19/ufc-london-muhammad-mokaev-vs-cody-durden/ |access-date=2022-03-19 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US |archive-date=19 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220319214838/https://cagesidepress.com/2022/03/19/ufc-london-muhammad-mokaev-vs-cody-durden/ |url-status=live }} With this win, he received the Performance of the Night award.{{Cite web |date=2022-03-19 |title=UFC Fight Night 204 bonuses: Nine fighters go home with $50,000 |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-fight-night-204-london-bonuses-nine-fighters-50000-knockouts-submissions-paddy-pimblett-molly-mccann |access-date=2022-03-20 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US |archive-date=28 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128005034/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-fight-night-204-london-bonuses-nine-fighters-50000-knockouts-submissions-paddy-pimblett-molly-mccann |url-status=live }}
Mokaev faced Charles Johnson in his second UFC bout on 23 July 2022, at UFC Fight Night 212.{{Cite web |date=2022-04-21 |title=Muhammad Mokaev set for second UFC fight, takes on LFA champion Charles Johnson |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/04/ufc-news-muhammad-mokaev-vs-charles-johnson-lfa-july-23 |access-date=2022-04-22 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US |archive-date=22 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220422025136/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/04/ufc-news-muhammad-mokaev-vs-charles-johnson-lfa-july-23 |url-status=live }} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web |last=Bitter |first=Shawn |date=2022-07-23 |title=UFC London: Muhammad Mokaev Secures Dominant Win Over Newcomer Charles Johnson |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/07/23/ufc-london-muhammad-mokaev-vs-charles-johnson/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US |archive-date=12 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221012014812/https://cagesidepress.com/2022/07/23/ufc-london-muhammad-mokaev-vs-charles-johnson/ |url-status=live }}
Mokaev faced Malcolm Gordon on 22 October 2022, at UFC 280.{{Cite web |author=Alexander K. Lee |date=2022-08-02 |title=Muhammad Mokaev vs. Malcolm Gordon booked for UFC 280 |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/8/1/23287779/muhammad-mokaev-vs-malcolm-gordon-booked-for-ufc-280 |access-date=2022-08-02 |publisher=mmafighting.com |archive-date=30 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030132830/https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/8/1/23287779/muhammad-mokaev-vs-malcolm-gordon-booked-for-ufc-280/ |url-status=live }} He won the fight via armbar in the third round.{{Cite web |last=Dewar |first=Val |date=2022-10-22 |title=UFC 280: Muhammad Mokaev Snags Late Armbar Finish vs Malcom Gordon |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/10/22/ufc-280-muhammad-mokaev-snags-late-armbar-finish-vs-malcom-gordon/ |access-date=2022-10-23 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US |archive-date=23 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221023030810/https://cagesidepress.com/2022/10/22/ufc-280-muhammad-mokaev-snags-late-armbar-finish-vs-malcom-gordon/ |url-status=live }}
Mokaev faced Jafel Filho on 18 March 2023 at UFC 286.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/1/16/23557981/muhammad-mokaev-set-to-return-against-jafel-filho-at-ufc-286|title=Muhammad Mokaev set to return against Jafel Filho at UFC 286|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Shaun Al-Shatti|date=2023-01-16|access-date=2023-01-16|archive-date=17 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117015404/https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/1/16/23557981/muhammad-mokaev-set-to-return-against-jafel-filho-at-ufc-286|url-status=live}} He won the fight via a neck crank submission in the third round.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/03/18/ufc-286-muhammad-mokaev-survives-jafel-filho/|title=UFC 286: Muhammad Mokaev survives scary kneebar, submits Jafel Filho|website=Cageside Press|author=Val Dewar|date=2023-03-18|access-date=2023-03-18}}
Mokaev faced Tim Elliott at UFC 294 on 21 October 2023.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/7/14/23795182/muhammad-mokaev-vs-tim-elliott-set-for-ufc-294-in-abu-dhabi|title=Muhammad Mokaev vs. Tim Elliott set for UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi|date=July 14, 2023|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Mike Heck}} He won the fight by arm triangle submission in the third round.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-10-21 |title=UFC 294: Muhammad Mokaev Arrives As Contender, Submits Ex-Title Challenger Tim Elliot |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/10/21/ufc-294-tim-elliot-vs-muhammad-mokaev/ |access-date=2023-10-22 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}} This fight earned him the Performance of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bjpenn.com/mma-news/ufc-294/ufc-294-bonus-report-islam-makhachev-one-of-four-fighters-to-take-home-an-extra-50k/|title=UFC 294 Bonus Report: Islam Makhachev one of four fighters to take home an extra $50k|publisher=bjpenn.com|author=Chris Taylor|date=2023-10-21|access-date=2023-10-21}}
Mokaev faced Alex Perez on 2 March 2024, at UFC Fight Night 238.{{Cite web|last=Cunningham|first=John|url=https://www.mmanews.com/news/muhammad-mokaev-return-ufc-saudi-arabia-faces-former-title-challenger|title=Muhammad Mokaev Booked To Return At UFC Saudi Arabia On March 2, Faces Former Title Challenger|website=MMA News|date=2023-12-06|access-date=2023-12-06}} After landing takedowns and having more control time, Mokaev won the bout by unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2024/03/02/ufc-vegas-87-muhammad-mokaev-wins-grinding-decision-over-alex-perez/|title=UFC Vegas 87: Muhammad Mokaev Wins Grinding Decision Over Alex Perez|publisher=casesidepress.com|author=Jay Anderson|date=2024-03-02|access-date=2024-03-02}}
Mokaev faced Manel Kape on 27 July 2024, at UFC 304.{{Cite web |last=Meshew|first=Jed|date=2024-05-08 |title=Muhammad Mokaev faces Manel Kape at UFC 304 in Manchester| url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2024/5/8/24152339/muhammad-mokaev-faces-manel-kape-at-ufc-304-in-manchester|access-date=2024-05-08|website=MMA Fighting|language=en}} He won the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2024/07/27/injured-toe-hampers-manel-kape-muhammad-mokaev-wins-ufc-304-grudge-match/|title=Injured Toe Hampers Manel Kape, Muhammad Mokaev Wins UFC 304 Grudge Match|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Cade Morehouse|date=2024-07-27|access-date=2024-07-27}} At the event's post-fight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White said "‘PFL is going to get a great undefeated guy",{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2024/7/28/24207954/ufc-parts-ways-with-muhammad-mokaev-after-ufc-304-win-pfl-is-going-to-get-a-great-undefeated-guy|title=UFC parts ways with Muhammad Mokaev after UFC 304 win 'PFL is going to get a great undefeated guy'|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Alexander Behunin|date=2024-07-28|access-date=2024-07-28}} that Mokaev's contract would not be renewed "for many different reasons" implying outside-the-cage-issues and that he was no longer with the promotion.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/07/ufc-304-dana-white-muhammad-mokaev-pfl-free-agency|title=Dana White indicates Muhammad Mokaev done in UFC: 'PFL is going to get a great undefeated guy'|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Nolan King|date=2024-07-28|access-date=2024-07-28}}
==Return to Brave CF==
On 24 August 2024, it was reported that Mokaev re-signed with the Brave Combat Federation.
Mokaev was scheduled to face Luthando Biko on 13 December 2024 at Brave CF 91.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/11/muhammad-mokaev-first-fight-since-leaving-ufc-dana-white-controversy-flyweight-brave-fc|title=Muhammad Mokaev books first fight after parting ways with the UFC|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Farah Hannoun|date=2024-11-21|access-date=2024-11-21}} However, days before the event, Biko was forced to withdraw due to health issues and was replaced by Joevincent So in a 130 lb catchweight bout on two days' notice.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2024/12/11/24318641/joevincent-so-two-days-notice-shock-the-world-muhammad-mokaev-brave-cf-91|title=Joevincent So steps in on 2 days' notice, vows to 'shock the world' against Muhammad Mokaev at Brave CF 91
|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Guilherme Cruz|date=2024-12-11|access-date=2024-12-11}} Mokaev won the fight via a D'Arce choke submission in the first round.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/12/ufc-news-muhammad-mokaev-brave-cf-video|title=Muhammad Mokaev runs through first opponent since UFC departure|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Nolan King|date=2024-12-13|access-date=2024-12-13}}
Grappling career
Mokaev competed in the no gi featherweight division of the BJJ 247 Manchester Open on 17 March 2024, where he was disqualified from his first match for slamming an opponent and lost his second match by submission.{{cite web |last1=Phillips |first1=Sabrina |title=Watch UFC Veteran Muhammad Mokaev Disqualified From BJJ Tournament For Slamming |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/watch-ufc-veteran-muhammad-mokaev-disqualified-from-bjj-tournament-for-slamming/ |website=Jitsmagazine |date=18 March 2024 |access-date=23 March 2024}}
Mokaev was due to compete against Raul Rosas Jr. in the main event of ADXC 6 on 25 October 2024.{{cite web |last1=Williams |first1=Jackson |title=Muhammad Mokaev To Face Raul Rosas Jr In ADXC 6 Main Event |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/muhammad-mokaev-to-face-raul-rosas-jr-in-adxc-6-main-event/ |website=Jits Magazine |date=18 October 2024 |access-date=18 October 2024}} Rosas Jr withdrew from the match and was replaced by Rogério Bontorin, which Mokaev blamed on Rosas Jr.’s UFC contract.{{cite web |last1=de Souza |first1=Diogo |title=Muhammad Mokaev Claims UFC Cancelled Raul Rosas Jr Grappling Match |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/muhammad-mokaev-claims-ufc-cancelled-raul-rosas-jr-grappling-match/ |website=Jits Magazine |date=21 October 2024 |access-date=21 October 2024}} Mokaev lost the match by split decision.{{cite web |title=ADXC 6 Full Results And Highlights |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/adxc-6-full-results-and-highlights/ |website=Jits Magazine |date=26 October 2024 |access-date=26 October 2024}}
Karate Combat
Mokaev won his debut at Karate Combat 54 on May 2nd, 2025 via flying knee. {{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/DHnjtR7MbHw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== | title=Instagram }}
Personal life
Mokaev married Khava Eldarbekova in September 2020.{{cite web |last1=Mwamba |first1=Ramazani |title=Wife of Salford-based rising MMA star refused visa to see his family in Britain |url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/wife-salford-based-rising-mma-20416312 |website=ManchesterEveningNews|date=21 April 2021 }}{{cite web |last1=Mukhar |first1=Ghosh |title=Muhammad Mokaev Nationality and Family: Is UFC Flyweight Mokaev Married? |url=https://www.sportsmanor.com/muhammad-mokaev-family-relationship-nationality/ |website=Sportsmanor|date=22 October 2022 }} He is a devout Muslim and has publicly criticized the act of Quran burning.{{cite web |last1=Payne |first1=Johny |title="When someone talks sh** about gays, it is not freedom" - Muhammad Mokaev slams NATO chief justifying burning of Quran |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-when-someone-talks-sh-gays-freedom-muhammad-mokaev-slams-nato-chief-justifying-burning-quran |website=sportskeeda|date=July 2023 }} Mokaev became a UK citizen in 2021.{{Cite news |last=Manvir Rai |date=26 November 2021 |title=I want to make my own story - Mokaev |language=en-GB |work=www.bbc.com |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/59395583 |access-date=2023-10-20}} Mokaev is a supporter of the EFL League One football team Wigan Athletic and Super League rugby team, Wigan Warriors.{{cite web |last1=Wynn |first1=Amos |title=UFC star Muhammad Mokaev reflects on his recent victory- and discusses why he is fully behind both Wigan Warriors and Wigan Athletic |url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/ufc-star-muhammad-mokaev-reflects-on-his-recent-victory-and-discusses-why-he-is-fully-behind-both-wigan-warriors-and-wigan-athletic-4079571 |website=Wigan Today |date=26 March 2023 |access-date=20 June 2023}}
Popular culture
Beyond the UFC: An Inside Look at BRAVE CF 91: The documentary, directed by MMA filmmaker Will Harris{{cite web |last1=Villa |first1=Roberto |title=Legendary MMA Filmmaker Will Harris to Shoot BRAVE 91 Documentary in Bahrain |url=https://www.fightbookmma.com/legendary-mma-filmmaker-will-harris-documents-brave-91-in-bahrain/ |website=FightBook MMA |date=2 December 2024 |access-date=28 December 2024}} provides an inside look at Muhammad Mokaev's return to BRAVE CF at BRAVE CF 91. The film captures the chaotic fight week leading up to the event, including a last-minute opponent change and weight class adjustment, and offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on Mokaev's training at KHK MMA alongside world champions and Olympic medalists.{{cite web |last1=Carrano |first1=Lucas |title=Will Harris Unveils a Gripping New Documentary on Muhammad Mokaev's Journey at BRAVE CF 91 |url=https://www.blackbeltmag.com/will-harris-unveils-a-gripping-new-documentary-on-muhammad-mokaev-s-journey-at-brave-cf-91 |website=Black Belt |date=24 December 2024 |access-date=28 December 2024}}
Championships and accomplishments
=Mixed martial arts=
- Ultimate Fighting Championship
- Performance of the Night (Two times){{small| vs. Cody Durden and Tim Elliott}}
- Tied (Alexandre Pantoja) for second longest win streak in UFC Flyweight division history (7){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/?fighter_status=0&weight_class=FLW|title=UFC Flyweight - Leaders|author=UFC|date=July 27, 2024|publisher=ufc.com}}
- Third most submissions in UFC Flyweight division history (4)
- Second highest control time percentage in UFC Flyweight division history (51.8%)
- Fourth highest top-position percentage in UFC Flyweight division history (37.9%)
- Fewest strikes absorbed-per-minute in UFC Flyweight division history (1.35)
- Seventh most takedowns landed in UFC Flyweight division history (31)
- UFC Honors Awards
- 2022: Fan's Choice Debut of the Year Nominee {{small|vs. Cody Durden}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCr6W-GMUgc|title=2022 Debut of the Year Nominees - UFC HONORS|publisher=UFC|author=UFC|date=2022-12-31|access-date=2025-01-15}}
- UFC.com Awards
- 2022: Ranked #3 Newcomer of the Year{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/newcomers-2022-ufc-com-awards|title=The Newcomers - 2022 UFC.com Awards|date=December 20, 2022|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
Mixed martial arts record
{{MMArecordbox
|draws=
|nc=1
|ko-wins=2
|sub-wins=7
|dec-wins=5
|ko-losses=
|sub-losses=
|dec-losses=
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
|other-wins=
|other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|14–0 (1)
|Joevincent So
|Submission (D'Arce choke)
|{{dts|2024|December|13}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|1:52
|Isa Town, Bahrain
|{{small|Catchweight (130 lb) bout.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|13–0 (1)
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2024|July|27}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|12–0 (1)
|Decision (unanimous)
|UFC Fight Night: Rozenstruik vs. Gaziev
|{{dts|2024|March|02}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|11–0 (1)
|Submission (arm-triangle choke)
|{{dts|2023|October|21}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|3:03
|Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|{{nowrap|10–0 (1)}}
|Jafel Filho
|Submission (neck crank)
|{{dts|2023|March|18}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|4:32
|London, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|9–0 (1)
|Submission (armbar)
|{{dts|2022|October|22}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|4:26
|Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|8–0 (1)
| Decision (unanimous)
| UFC Fight Night: Blaydes vs. Aspinall
| {{dts|2022|July|23}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|5:00
| London, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|7–0 (1)
| Submission (guillotine choke)
| UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Aspinall
| {{dts|2022|March|19}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|0:58
| London, England
|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|6–0 (1)
| Blaine O'Driscoll
| Submission (rear-naked choke)
| {{dts|2021|September|25}}
| align=center|2
| align=center|1:36
| Konin, Poland
| {{small|Catchweight (130 lb) bout.}}
|-
|{{nocontest}}NC
| align=center|5–0 (1)
| Ibragim Navruzov
| NC (accidental groin kick)
| {{dts|2021|June|04}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|1:24
| Minsk, Belarus
|{{small|Catchweight (130 lb) bout. An accidental groin kick rendered Navruzov unable to continue.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|5–0
| Abdul Hussein
| Decision (unanimous)
| {{dts|2021|March|25}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|5:00
| Manama, Bahrain
| {{small|Flyweight debut.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|4–0
| Dave Jones
| TKO (submission to punches)
| Celtic Gladiator 28
| {{dts|2020|November|22}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|2:11
| Glasgow, Scotland
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|3–0
| Jamie Kelly
| Submission (rear-naked choke)
| {{dts|2020|October|01}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|2:11
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|2–0
| Hayden Sherriff
| TKO (body kick and punches)
| Celtic Gladiator 27
| {{dts|2020|August|22}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|0:51
| Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|1–0
| Glenn McVeigh
| Decision (unanimous)
| {{dts|2020|August|01}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|5:00
| Stockholm, Sweden
| {{small|Bantamweight debut.}}
|-
{{end}}
{{MMA amateur record box
|draws=
|nc=
|ko-wins=5
|sub-wins=3
|ko-losses=
|sub-losses=
|dec-wins=15
|dec-losses=0
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
|other-wins=
|other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|23–0
| Abdulla Mubarak
| Submission (rear-naked choke)
| 2020 IMMAF-WMMAA Oceania Championships: Finals
| {{dts|2020|March|08|format=dmy}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|1:29
| Gold Coast, Australia
|{{small|Won IMMAF WMMAA OCEANA Championships.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|22–0
| Abdulla Alyaqoob
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2020 IMMAF-WMMAA Oceania Championships: Semifinals
| {{dts|2020|March|07|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Gold Coast, Australia
|{{small|IMMAF WMMAA OCEANA Championships Semifinal.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|21–0
| Reo Yamaguchi
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Junior World Championships: Day 4, Finals
| {{dts|2019|November|14|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|20–0
| Tynyshtyk Zhanibek
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Junior World Championships: Day 3, Cage 3
| {{dts|2019|November|13|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|19–0
| Nikolay Atanasov
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Junior World Championships: Day 2, Cage 2
| {{dts|2019|November|12|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|18–0
| Max Hynninen
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Junior World Championships: Day 1, Cage 1
| {{dts|2019|November|11|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|17–0
| Mikey Boden
| TKO (punches)
| World Combat FC 3: Way of the Warrior
| {{dts|2019|September|28|format=dmy}}
| align=center|2
| align=center|2:10
| Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|16–0
| Myles Richards
| Decision (unanimous)
| Caged Steel FC 23
| {{dts|2019|July|13|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Sheffield, England
|{{small|Won vacant Caged Steel FC Bantamweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|15–0
| Reo Yamaguchi
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA European Junior Open Championships: Junior Finals
| {{dts|2019|June|22|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Rome, Italy
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|14–0
| Batir Sharukhanov
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA European Junior Open Championships: Day 3
| {{dts|2019|June|21|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Rome, Italy
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|13–0
| Abanoub Fares
| TKO (punches)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA European Junior Open Championships: Day 2
| {{dts|2019|June|20|format=dmy}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|2:32
| Rome, Italy
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|12–0
| Ciaran Mulholland
| Decision (unanimous)
| UK Fighting Championships 9
| {{dts|2019|March|23|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Preston, England
|{{small|Won vacant UKFC Bantamweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|11–0
| Reo Yamaguchi
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Unified Junior World Championships: Day 5, Finals
| {{dts|2018|November|17|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|10–0
| Ismael Zamora
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Unified Junior World Championships: Day 4, Cage 1
| {{dts|2018|November|15|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|9–0
| Nurbolat Oteuov
| Decision (unanimous)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Unified Junior World Championships: Day 3, Cage 2
| {{dts|2018|November|14|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|8–0
| Imran Satiev
| Submission (rear-naked choke)
| 2019 IMMAF-WMMAA Unified Junior World Championships: Day 2, Cage 3
| {{dts|2018|November|13|format=dmy}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|0:57
| Manama, Bahrain
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|7–0
| Jack Eglin
| TKO (slam & punches)
| UK Fighting Championships 5
| {{dts|2017|October|07|format=dmy}}
| align=center|2
| align=center|2:25
| Flyweight, England
|{{small|Won vacant UKFC Flyweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|6–0
| Sebastian Gonzalez
| TKO (punches)
| Tanko FC 4
| {{dts|2017|May|12|format=dmy}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|0:37
| Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|5–0
| Liam Gittins
| Decision (unanimous)
| Tanko FC 3
| {{dts|2017|February|11|format=dmy}}
| align=center|5
| align=center|3:00
| Manchester, England
|{{small|Won inaugural Tanko FC Amateur Flyweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|4–0
| Markus Hægland
| Decision (unanimous)
| Tanko FC 2
| {{dts|2016|December|03|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|3–0
| Jose Rufino
| TKO (punches)
| ICE FC 18
| {{dts|2016|October|28|format=dmy}}
| align=center|2
| align=center|1:27
| Bolton, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|2–0
| Ash McCracken
| Decision (unanimous)
| Full Contact Contender 17
| {{dts|2016|September|24|format=dmy}}
| align=center|3
| align=center|3:00
| Manchester, England
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
| align=center|1–0
| Jake Hinton
| Submission (rear-naked choke)
| Shinobi War 6
| {{dts|2015|November|28|format=dmy}}
| align=center|1
| align=center|2:25
| Manchester, England
|
|-
{{end}}
Karate Combat record
{{MMArecordbox
| draws=
| nc=
| ko-wins= 1
| dec-wins=
| ko-losses=
| dec-losses=
| dq-wins=
| dq-losses=
| other-wins=
| other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|1–0
|Bolat Zamanbekov
|TKO (flying knee)
|{{dts|2025|May|2}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|1:23
|Dubai, United Arab Emirates
|
{{end}}
See also
References
{{reflist}}
External links
- {{Sherdog|236141}}
- {{UFC|liana-dzhodzhua-0}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Mokaev, Muhammad}}
Category:Russian male mixed martial artists
Category:English male mixed martial artists
Category:Flyweight mixed martial artists
Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing freestyle wrestling
Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship male fighters
Category:Russian male sport wrestlers
Category:British male sport wrestlers
Category:Russian practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:English practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:Russian emigrants to the United Kingdom
Category:Sportspeople from Wigan
Category:Naturalised citizens of the United Kingdom