Looks [autotag]Muhammad Mokayev[/autotag] You can cross PFL off the list.
PFL President Ray Sefo has indicated that the promotion is not interested in the recently released Mokaev (12-0), who was promptly released from the UFC following his victory at last Saturday’s UFC 304.
“No, actually,” Sefo told reporters in a 2024 PFL Playoffs 1 post-fight press conference Friday (h/t MMA Mania). I’ve spoken to people who know this and apparently he’s a pain in the ass to deal with. So no, we’re not interested.”
Mokaev, who turned 24 on Sunday, rose to UFC contender status at flyweight, a division the PFL does not have as part of its season format, with featherweight being the lightest men’s weight class. Meanwhile, PFL-owned Bellator is as light as bantamweight.
After Mokaev built a stellar reputation for his skills inside the cage as an amateur and early professional, he signed with the UFC in 2022. Mokaev won seven consecutive fights in the promotion and established himself as one of the best fighters in the division.
However, his behavior outside the cage would ultimately lead to his departure from the UFC, as Mokaev’s final months with the promotion included a fight at the UFC Performance Institute and at the fighter’s hotel.
UFC CEO Dana White lashed out at Moakev after he completed his contract and immediately informed reporters that the promotion would not be bringing him back.
“He’s no longer under contract,” White said. “I think the PFL is going to get a great undefeated guy.”
The promotion has since removed Mokaev from its rankings.
If not the UFC or the PFL, where else could Mokaev land?
Asian promotions RIZIN and ONE Championship have yet to sway his interest, but both have 125-pound divisions. BKFC often goes after notable MMA names, but Mokaev is predominantly a grappler.
Despite all signs pointing to the promotion quickly pushing him out the door, Mokaev recently apologized and indicated he hopes the UFC reconsiders.
“My dream is to become UFC champion,” Mokaev wrote.
For more information on the card, visit the MMA Junkie events hub to 2024 PFL Playoffs 1.
This article was originally published on MMA Junkie: Ray Sefo says PFL is not interested in Muhammad Mokaev: ‘Apparently he’s just a pain in the ass to deal with’
