Muhammad Mokaev maintained his undefeated record in his second fight since leaving the UFC.
Despite improving his flawless UFC record to 7-0 with a win against Manel Kape, Mokaev`s aspirations for a title shot in the top MMA organization were put on hold in 2024.
Due to factors outside the cage and reported disagreements with the matchmakers, Dana White announced that the UFC would not renew Mokaev`s contract, thus releasing him.
Following an initial effort to gain fan support for a quick return to the promotion, `The Punisher` has since dedicated himself to making his way back through strong showings in other organizations.
His latest fight, aimed at recapturing the UFC`s attention, took place this past weekend.
Muhammad Mokaev defeats Thomas Assis by decision in 971 Fighting Championship
Mokaev`s initial bout after departing the UFC was last December, when he returned to Brave CF, his previous promotion.
The British fighter, born in Dagestan, made a strong impression against a late-replacement opponent, submitting Joevincent So in less than two minutes.
Although he couldn`t secure another quick finish, Mokaev was again successful in his first fight of this year, held on Saturday in Dubai.
Headlining 971 FC 2, `The Punisher` defeated Thomas Assis, a Brazilian competitor with a 12-2 record who had previously fought under the Jungle Fight banner, by decision.
Despite the fight being contested at bantamweight, Mokaev made several assertions regarding his dominance in the flyweight division (125 pounds), particularly concerning his earnings.
Mokaev stated on X (formerly Twitter), “15-0,” adding that he is the “Most paid fighter FLYWEIGHT in the world.”
He also posted, “Just never give up, face the challenges and become stronger. Doesn’t matter what you’re going through in your life!”
In a separate post, Mokaev shifted focus from his pay to his skill, making a different claim.
He declared, “The best flyweight in the world.”
Muhammad Mokaev targets UFC return for Alexandre Pantoja title fight
Another successful outing outside the UFC has undoubtedly increased Mokaev’s aspirations of returning to the sport`s premier organization.
Even before his June 14 win, Mokaev reaffirmed his goal, in an interview with Bloody Elbow, to be re-signed by Dana White for a highly anticipated fight against current UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.
He stated, “I believe I just need to put in a striking performance and win by spectacular finish, and people have already started talking about how I need to come back to the UFC. Of course, my dream is to become the best in the world.”
“Pantoja is 36 years old, I’m 24, I’m in my peak. Remember, I was beating guys who were in their peak while I was 22. Now, I’m feeling much stronger, much better.”
“Whatever has gone on in my career has made me mentally stronger. Now, I’m ready to fight for the belt.”
Currently, Pantoja`s focus is on Kai Kara-France, as `The Cannibal` is scheduled to defend his title against him in the co-main event of UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas.
