Muhammad Mokaev, a Russian-born British mixed martial artist, was recently released by the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) despite a seven-fight winning streak. Mokaev extended his unbeaten record in the UFC with a unanimous decision victory over Manuel Kape at UFC 304 in July 2024. However, UFC president Dana White confirmed that the organization would not be re-signing Mokaev. Mokaev disputes the idea that his behavior leading up to the Kape fight—such as altercations with his opponent at a hotel and during weigh-ins—played a role in the decision. He argues that if he were considered a problematic fighter, the UFC would not have allowed him to compete seven times and renew his contract twice. Mokaev believes his wrestling-based fighting style contributed to his release. He made a strong debut in the UFC with a submission victory in just 58 seconds and followed it up with a unanimous decision win over Charles Johnson. He claims the UFC contacted his manager after the Johnson fight, stating, "he needs to stop wrestling—we don't want these decision guys." Mokaev has a 60% finish rate in the UFC, with four of his seven fights ending in finishes against high-profile opponents. Since his release, Mokaev has remained active in the sport, competing eight times in the past two years. He has finished opponents using chokes, body kicks, head kicks, and punches, and has also won titles in other promotions like Brave CF and ACBJJ. However, he feels the UFC is changing its standards and has not shown interest in bringing him back. Mokaev mentions that UFC matchmakers Hunter Campbell, Mick Maynard, and Sean Shelby are part of a WhatsApp group with him, but he believes the UFC is not following through on its promises. Mokaev was offered $10,000 to compete in a UFC BJJ event against bantamweight champion Mikey Musumeci but refused, calling the offer an insult. He was open to fighting Musumeci if the UFC had offered him a contract afterward, but the organization declined, explaining that BJJ is different and they have other plans. Mokaev responded to the situation with strong language. Mokaev is now considering a one-fight deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) if the promotion creates a 125-pound division after its recent merger with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions. He wants to stay active in the sport while also focusing on his family. Despite his release, Mokaev remains confident that he is the best flyweight in the world and believes he will eventually fight for the UFC title.