Muhammad Mokaev pleaded for new contract, title shot after UFC 304 win ... but was it too late?
MANCHESTER, England – Muhammad Mokaev is hoping that his efforts on Saturday night turn into a new contract and an opportunity to fight for UFC gold.
Mokaev, who defeated Manel Kape in a unanimous decision at UFC 304, fought out his contract with the promotion as he picked up his seventh consecutive win in the octagon.
“Yes, I want to fight for the belt and I hope the UFC gives me a new contract,” Mokaev told reporters at the UFC 304 post-fight press conference. “My contract is finished with the UFC. I hope to get a new contract. They want exciting fights and I tried to put my striking together. This is the first time in my career that I was standing for three rounds and with the best flyweight striker.”
Although Mokaev (13-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) didn’t put on the most exciting performance against Kape (19-7 MMA, 4-3 UFC), he believes his better days are ahead and promises to evolve into a more fan-friendly style.
“I’m young, still not in my prime,” Mokaev said. “If they want me to stand and bang, toe-to-toe, with this 30-year-old grown man, I have to do what’s best for me.”
Mokaev said the UFC didn’t offer him a new contract in the lead up to Satuday’s event. UFC CEO Dana White commented on the situation following the fight, and didn’t seem keen on re-signing the undefeated contender.
“They said they’re going to see how I perform,” Mokaev said regading not getting an offer in the build up to UFC 304. “They don’t want to see me keep shooting and taking somebody down. I’ve done what I could do tonight.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 304.