After boasting an impressive undefeated record of 13 wins, 0 losses, and 1 no contest, Muhammad Mokaev faced a setback in his aspirations to secure a new contract with the UFC following his recent victory at UFC 304. Despite a convincing unanimous decision triumph over Manel Kape, the promotion opted not to engage in further contract discussions with Mokaev. UFC CEO Dana White suggested that Mokaev would be transitioning to the Professional Fighters League (PFL), emphasizing certain pre-fight issues and expressing that PFL would be gaining a talented unbeaten fighter.
Information from a source closely associated with Mokaev indicates that he and his management team had been engaging in discussions with PFL regarding potential compensation before his last bout. This particular negotiation tactic reportedly played a pivotal role in the UFC’s choice not to extend a new contract to Mokaev, serving as the tipping point for the promotion. Should Mokaev decide to ink a deal with PFL, he may have to make a weight class adjustment to compete in the Bantamweight division, as PFL currently lacks a Flyweight division.
