The UFC Fight Night event features a flyweight bout between Alex Perez and Muhammad Mokaev, promising an intriguing matchup between a seasoned contender and a rising star in the division.
Muhammad Mokaev Earns Unanimous Decision Over Alex Perez at UFC Vegas 88
Perez enters this fight as a veteran, with a professional record of 24-7, and has faced a challenging period leading up to this fight, with his last appearance being a submission loss to Alexandre Pantoja in July 2022 at UFC 277. This fight marked his return after a 19-month hiatus and a title fight submission loss to Deiveson Figueiredo in 2020, leaving Perez without a win for over four years. Despite these setbacks, Perez’s experience and all-rounded skill set, highlighted by quick hand speed and powerful leg kicks, always makes him a game and dangerous opponent.
Mokaev enters the octagon with an undefeated professional record of 11-0(1), quickly establishing himself as one of the sport’s brightest prospects. His journey in the UFC has been impressive, with wins over Malcolm Gordon, Jafel Filho, and Tim Elliott, showcasing his superb grappling skills and submission victories. Mokaev’s momentum and recent activity present a significant challenge for Perez, as the young fighter looks to add another big name to his resume.
Both fighters bring distinct strengths to this bout, with Perez known for his boxing-wrestling combination and lethal low kicks, while Mokaev’s wrestling prowess and dangerous kicks highlight his finishing ability. This fight is expected to be a battle of aggression, with both seeking to establish dominance early on. Perez’s wrestling background and high offensive output contrast with Mokaev’s range management and submission skills, promising a contest full of exciting wrestling scrambles and tactical striking exchanges.
What Unfolded at UFC Vegas 87
Mokaev and Perez both came out swinging hard with bad intentions, but with nothing significant being landed. The Brit was patient, and when Perez attacked, he was out of harms way every time.Mokaev, known for his superior wrestling credentials, tried to take the fight to the mat on several occasions, but Perez’s takedown defense held up pretty well until the last minute of the fight. Mokaev closed out the round with a dominant showing hammering down punches on Perez after securing his first takedown.
Mokaev latches onto the back fast in the opening round, but was unable to work towards a submission. Perez found success while pushing Mokaev towards the fence landing multiple shots which forced the 23-year-old to shoot for a takedown once again. Mokaev seemed to be notably slowing signs of fatigue, and Perez was finding success pushing him against the fence, and defending every shot the Mokaev has to offer.
Mokaev adopted to taking a wrestling heavy approach in the third-round, but Perez has an answer for everything. The Brit attempted eighteen takedowns, but only secured three.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
