Muhammad Mokaev gets called out by Bellator champion after UFC allegedly pulls the plug on Raul Rosas Jr. grappling match
Muhammad Mokaev was all set to headline the Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship (ADXC) grappling match against UFC fightter Raul Rosas Jr. on Oct. 25 at the Mubadala Arena in Dubai. However, on Monday, Mokaev confirmed that the contest was not happening.
The fight between the two was booked on short notice, just seven days prior to the event. Both fighters agreed to a catchweight grappling match that would headline the event, which is scheduled to take place just one day before UFC 308.
However, just three days later, Mokaev announced that the fight was not going ahead. He expressed respect for Rosas Jr. but alleged that the UFC played a role in the cancellation.
“I have a lot of respect towards @raulrosasjr Unfortunately UFC didn’t let him to compete I wish you all the best bro!”
Reacting to the announcement, current bantamweight champion Patrick Mix took to X to express his desire to step in for Raul Rosas Jr. and fight against Mokaev.
“Looks like Raul can’t make it. I can come to scrap on ADXC6 if you want the smoke. @AliAbdelaziz00”
Muhammad Mokaev has expressed his desire to return to UFC
Muhammad Mokaev last fought in UFC 304, where he secured a unanimous decision victory against Manel Kape. Following the post-fight conference, he mentioned that he wants to fight Alexandre Pantoja.
However, UFC CEO Dana White later announced that the promotion would not be renewing Mokaev's contract, suggesting that he should start exploring other options.
After 'The Punisher' signed a contract with Brave CF, he took to X to share his intention to make it back to the UFC. He tweeted:
"Highest paid flyweight fighter in the world right now without holding the title @bravemmaf But of course my goal is come back to UFC because it is the number 1 promotion in the world right now!"