This weekend at UFC 286, Muhammad Mokaev fights in London for the 3rd time in his short UFC career. He’ll be taking on Jafel Filho in a flyweight bout at the start of the prelims. This will be the first time Mokaev will be fighting on the prelims that arent not taking place on UFC Fight-pass. Something that he’s been very vocal about is to finally fight on the prelims so more of his fans can watch him fight.
Muhammad Mokaev and His UFC Career So Far
For a flyweight with only three fights in the UFC so far. He’s risen to a considerable level of popularity in such a short period. 2 finishes in the UFC and one decision does usually generate some attention, but on top of Mokaev’s talent in the octagon, he’s a little bit of a trash talk as well. In March, he shockingly made his debut. Opening the fight with a flying knee that landed and got him into a guillotine choke, and won.
Also, going to a decision in July at UFC London did derail the bandwagon a little, but in October, the hype train continued. At UFC 280, he secured a 3rd round armbar in a fight that he was arguably losing. And he’s now a ranked contender in the flyweight division.
IMMAF
Mokaev has a very in-depth career as an amateur fighter, fighting in different amateur tournaments but most notably in IMMAF. The International Mix Martial Arts Federation is one of the most creditable amateur organisations in the world. Mokaev was a multiple-time champion with IMMAF for many years before finally making a move to a professional career. He was the junior bantamweight champion for 2018-2019 and finished his amateur career as 23-0.
Team Kaobon
Team Kaobon is one of the most well-known gyms in the UK. Home to fighters like Darren Till and Tom Aspinall. Mokaev originally started his career training there under the guidance and tutelage of Collin Heron, who also coaches Till and Aspinall. To keep his membership there, he wiped the mats after practice in exchange for lessons in MMA. Young Aspinall was Mokaov’s BJJ coach for a few years, and it’s incredible to see how far they’ve come.
Mokaev is the first fight on the broadcast on ESPN+, BT Sport and BT Sport’s youtube channel. He’s supposed to be walking out at 7.30 pm, so tune in as soon as you can. He’s a must-watch.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
