"The Punisher" needs a new opponent.
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Flyweight contender Muhammad Mokaev was scheduled to face Luthando Biko at Brave CF 91 this weekend (Fri., Dec. 13, 2024), which will take place inside Khalifa Sports City Arena in Isa Town, Bahrain. However, that match is now in jeopardy as his opponent has pulled out of the fight.
According to a press release from Brave FC, Biko had to withdraw from Friday’s card due to health issues. As of now, no replacement opponent has been found for Mokaev.
Mokaev, 24, was not re-signed following his unanimous decision victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304 earlier this year, due to what were described as "behind-the-scenes issues." He subsequently signed with Brave FC, a promotion where he has competed five times.
The young Flyweight aspires to receive a call from UFC CEO Dana White and his team with a win in Brave FC, especially in light of UFC Flyweight Alexandre Pantoja’s impressive victory at UFC 310 last weekend, since there seems to be no clear next opponent for the Brazilian fighter.
Unfortunately for Mokaev, finding an opponent with just three days’ notice may prove challenging, particularly due to his undefeated 12-0 record and his previous status as a UFC fighter. The one silver lining is that there are several high-level Flyweights within the regional scene who could potentially step up to fight him.
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