Muhammad Mokaev reveals why he turned down recent UFC title opportunity

Muhammad Mokaev has turned down a UFC BJJ title opportunity against Mikey Musumeci, citing the promotion's unwillingness to tie the grappling bout to a full return to the MMA roster. The undefeated flyweight (17–0), who departed the UFC in 2024 following a controversial stint, was offered $10,000 to face Musumeci in UFC's grappling division. However, when the UFC made clear that the BJJ appearance would not lead to an MMA contract, Mokaev declined. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said the UFC told him BJJ was separate and that they had "other plans," to which he responded bluntly. Mokaev's exit from the promotion came after a lackluster performance against top-ranked 125-pounder Manel Kape; despite his perfect record, his pre-fight behaviour reportedly soured UFC executives on him. Since leaving, the Dagestan-born British fighter has remained active, picking up four additional wins and competing in grappling and wrestling matches. The rejection underscores his focus on returning to UFC's MMA division rather than pursuing a standalone BJJ platform.