Muhammad Mokaev admits behind-the-scenes drama with UFC led to departure; blasts Steve Erceg for spreading “misinformation” about treatment of staff
Muhammad Mokaev was surprisingly not re-signed by the UFC following his victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304. As one of the top prospects in the flyweight division, his departure from the promotion left fans confused.
But as 'The Punisher' continues his search for a new home, more information is coming to light about the reasons for the UFC's decision not to re-sign him. Initially, fans thought that Mokaev's scuffle with Kape at the fighter hotel ahead of their fight was the main reason for his not receiving a new deal.
However, former flyweight title challenger Steve Erceg has shed light on his experience witnessing how the 24-year-old used to treat UFC staff, labeling him as "entitled." The Australian said this:
"The way he treats people. I don't know if fans get to see it but he just seemed like a little entitled and thinks he's very important..."
Click here to watch Erceg's full comments.
Mokaev came across his fellow flyweight's comments on X and responded to 'Astroboy', claiming he was spreading "misinformation." However, he admitted that things did happen behind the scenes to contribute to his not receiving a new contract.
He wrote this:
"I have a great relationship with the nutrition team, they helped me a lot. Go and interview them before you talk s**t you don't know. Unfortunately because people like him spread false information, the media reacts differently."
He added:
"There's some things behind-the-scenes but nothing to do with disrespecting UFC staff..."
See Muhammad Mokaev's posts below:
PFL president dismisses possibility of signing "pain in the a**" Muhammad Mokaev
Following news that Muhammad Mokaev would not be re-signed by the UFC, many thought that the undefeated flyweight prospect may be heading to the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
These rumors were based on UFC CEO Dana White's statement following Mokaev's win over Manel Kape at UFC 304, where he stated that the PFL would be receiving the talented, undefeated fighter.
But following the conclusion of PFL Nashville on 2 Aug., promotional president Ray Sefo appeared in front of the media. He was asked about whether or not they were interested in signing Mokaev, and said this:
"Actually, I've spoken to people that are in the know and apparently he's a pain in the a** to deal with. So no, we're not interested."
Catch Ray Sefo's comments on Muhammad Mokaev below (1:25):