Muhammad Mokaev has expressed robust confidence about returning to the UFC, revealing that his relationship with the promotion has considerably improved since his departure in 2024. The unbeaten British-Dagestani flyweight, who just lately captured the inaugural Courageous CF title, believes he may very well be again within the Octagon inside the subsequent yr.
“I’m nonetheless grateful to the organisation for what they’ve performed for me,” Mokaev said throughout a current interview in Qatar. “I imagine I’ll compete on a UFC card by 2026. The bridges are usually not fully burned.”
Reflecting on an Unbeaten UFC Run
Mokaev’s confidence is rooted in a formidable UFC document. Throughout his tenure, he compiled an ideal 7-0 run within the flyweight division, establishing himself as one of many promotion’s most promising prospects earlier than his sudden launch.
Whereas the precise causes for his departure had been by no means totally disclosed, UFC President Dana White indicated on the time that elements past combat efficiency performed a job. Mokaev has chosen to deal with the longer term relatively than dwell on the previous.
“I maintain no grudges,” he emphasised. “It’s enterprise. I’ve continued to work, to win, and to develop as a fighter. That’s what issues.”
Constructing a Case for a Comeback
Since leaving the UFC, Mokaev hasn’t slowed down. His knockout victory to say the Courageous Fight Federation flyweight title in November 2025 despatched a transparent message to main promotions. Notably, he acquired congratulations from UFC executives following the win—a gesture he sees as a optimistic signal.
“Successful a title anyplace will get consideration,” Mokaev famous. “But it surely’s additionally about the way you carry your self. I’ve matured, I’ve tailored my method, and I believe they see that.”
The fighter additionally credit a renewed focus, pushed by household duties and a restructured workforce, for protecting him on track. His purpose is not only to return, however to return as an improved and extra full athlete.
Trying Forward to 2026
Together with his unbeaten skilled document intact and a serious regional title now on his resume, Mokaev’s case for a UFC return is compelling. The promotion has a historical past of re-signing fighters who discover success elsewhere, and Mokaev’s earlier 7-0 run provides him a singular standing.
“My objective has all the time been to compete on the very highest stage,” Mokaev stated. “The UFC is that stage. I left with an unbeaten document, and I need to come again and proceed that story. I’m prepared.”
For now, the 25-year-old stays a free agent, however his optimism means that negotiations or provides could already be taking form behind the scenes. If his prediction holds true, combat followers may see “The Punisher” again within the Octagon earlier than the tip of 2026.
