What does it take to break into the UFC—the world’s biggest mixed martial arts stage? Talent and a solid win record are essential, no doubt. But staying in the UFC? That often takes more than just W’s on your record. Sometimes, it’s about keeping UFC head honcho Dana White and the promotion’s top brass on your side. Don’t believe it? Just ask undefeated flyweight contender Muhammad Mokaev. Despite riding a seven-fight win streak, the Russian was infamously cut from the UFC roster. Following UFC 304, Dana White confirmed that the promotion chose not to renew his contract.
While many fans pointed to Muhammad Mokaev’s “boring” style as the reason, White later clarified that the decision was about more than what happened inside the Octagon. At the UFC 304 post-fight press conference, White explained: “The matchmakers aren’t big fans of his for many different reasons, and not just because [of his fighting style].” The fallout reportedly stemmed from an altercation with Manel Kape during that fight week. Mokaev allegedly sucker-punched Kape before their scheduled bout, and rumors of another scuffle at the UFC PI soon followed.
Things only got worse during their actual fight, when Muhammad Mokaev pulled down Manel Kape’s shorts mid-bout—an act widely seen as disrespectful and out of line. That moment, many believe, sealed his fate. Despite the now former UFC 125fer publicly calling on Dana White to give him another shot, the head honcho wasn’t budging. His response? “It is what it is.” Now, nearly a year removed from the UFC, ‘The Punisher’ still hasn’t given up on returning.
Recently, his name resurfaced when controversial MMA figure ‘The MMA Guru’ mentioned him and White online, in connection with today’s UFC Vegas 105 controversy. In response, Muhammad Mokaev addressed the situation directly on X, clearing the air about his relationship with the UFC boss: “But honestly, doesn’t matter what’s gone on, I never had beef with Dana. He was always cool with me! He wasn’t involved in all this.”
But honestly, doesn’t matter what’s gone on , I never had beef with Dana he was always cool with me!
He wasn’t involve in all this
— Muhammad Mokaev (@muhammadmokaev) April 6, 2025
Regardless of what went down behind the scenes, Mokaev hasn’t given up on making a UFC comeback. Since his release, he’s kept himself active—signing with BRAVE CF and even showcasing his grappling at ADXC 6 last October. Raul Rosas Jr. was originally set to face the Brit in the main event, but the Mexican pulled out before that fight night.
That didn’t sit well with Muhammad Mokaev, who publicly blamed White for the withdrawal, suggesting the UFC played a role in yanking Rosas from the card. Eventually, Brazilian grappler Rogério Bontorin stepped in to replace Rosas Jr., but if one thing’s obvious—it’s that ‘The Punisher’ hasn’t let go of the UFC dream. He’s doing whatever it takes to earn his way back.
Joe Rogan reacted to Muhammad Mokaev’s UFC release announced by Dana White
When it comes to business, nothing tops the UFC in Dana White’s eyes. Known for his cutthroat decision-making, White has never hesitated to remove anyone he sees as an obstacle to the promotion’s success. And no, we’re not talking about trees—but fighters like Muhammad Mokaev, who some believe fell victim to that very mindset. Even after an impressive win over Manel Kape, Mokaev—undefeated at the time—was released by the UFC in a move many fans called cold and calculated. The backlash was swift, with critics accusing the UFC CEO of targeting wrestlers who don’t bring fireworks, labeling them as “boring”.
Naturally, the decision stirred up conversation across the MMA world. And during the UFC 305 JRE Fight Companion episode, Joe Rogan—joined by former UFC heavyweight contender Brendan Schaub—didn’t hold back. As someone who’s watched Mokaev’s rise from the commentary booth, Rogan shared his blunt thoughts on Dana’ White’s call. “That dude is super difficult—so difficult. He’s f–king undefeated, 21-0, and tough as s–t. Remember when he got leg-locked and didn’t tap? His knee bar was horrific. I thought he might ruin his career.”
With showings like that, it’s clear why Muhammad Mokaev might not be the easiest fit for Dana White & Co.—but could the door still be open? Earlier this year, Muhammad mentioned having a “good relationship” with UFC executive Hunter Campbell, who, according to him, is optimistic about a potential return. Stay tuned for further updates.
The post “Never Had Beef With Dana” – Undefeated MMA Star Cut From UFC Defends Dana White Against Popular Narrative appeared first on EssentiallySports.
