Former UFC flyweight contender Muhammad Mokaev has made a bold assertion, stating his belief that he could easily defeat the current UFC champion, Joshua Van.
The 25-year-old British-Dagestani fighter remains a top prospect in the flyweight division and is currently awaiting his return to the premier MMA organization. Mokaev boasts an undefeated professional record of 15-0, complemented by an equally impressive amateur record of 23-0. His highly anticipated UFC debut in March 2022 resulted in an explosive victory against Cody Durden, validating the pre-fight hype.
Despite his success within the UFC, reaching a 7-0 record in the promotion, Mokaev was surprisingly released due to undisclosed behind-the-scenes issues. Undeterred, Mokaev has focused on continuous improvement and maintaining an active fighting career, driven by his ambition to return to the highest level of MMA. A highly anticipated bout against fellow elite flyweight Adriano Moraes on the Rousey vs. Carano MVP card in May was unfortunately cancelled due to visa complications.
This Saturday, Mokaev is set to compete in Madrid against veteran Jorge Calvo. While Calvo brings considerable experience with a 20-7 record, Mokaev’s level of competition is unparalleled in Calvo’s past encounters.
Muhammad Mokaev Ahead of WOW Debut
In anticipation of his fight in the Spanish capital, the talented flyweight spoke with Alvaro Colmenero on his YouTube channel, KOlmenero. Mokaev has competed in various promotions since his UFC departure in 2024, and this upcoming bout marks his debut in WOW, Spain’s premier MMA organization.
Mokaev explained his decision to fight in Spain, stating, “I chose to fight in Spain because I never fought here, I had never been here and I have competed everywhere around the world. Right now at this stage of my career I just want to travel around the world, compete, gain fans and perform in front of the fans I have already.”
Discussing a potential return to the UFC, Mokaev shared his perspective on the current flyweight division and its champion, Joshua Van. “I believe because I had 7 fights with the best organisation in the world and right now thereโs four guys in the top 15 list, one of those is ranked number 2 who I already beat. If I was losing maybe like 50/50 I would never be thinking maybe I come back but when you beat everybody there and how confident I can be champion today.”
Mokaev directed strong comments towards the current champion, Van. “Championโs name is Joshua Van right so my confidence and how much I love my career I am ready to like retire if I donโt beat this guy, thatโs how confident I can be champion today.” He added, “Easy fight, easy money I believe this is right now the perfect fight for me. I can beat him 10 times out of 10.”
The question remains: if Mokaev were to return to the UFC, would he be immediately considered for a title shot?
