Muhammad Mokaev makes MMA return in 971 FC's June main event in Dubai
Muhammad Mokaev makes MMA return in 971 FC's June main event in Dubai
Muhammad Mokaev has remained active since parting ways with the UFC.
After leaving the UFC, Mokaev has competed in grappling, MMA, and Karate Combat. In his return to BRAVE FC, the undefeated flyweight submitted Joevincent So in the first round this past December. He then scored a second-round knockout over Bolat Zamanbekov at Karate Combat 54 this past Friday.
Now, Mokaev (13-0) will look to continue his run in MMA when he takes on Kazakhstan's Alisher Gabdullin (15-4) in a bantamweight bout, which headlines 971 Fighting Championship June 14 at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, promotion officials announced Tuesday.
Mokaev went 7-0 in the UFC from March 2022 to July 2024, and was on the cusp of title contention before the promotion decided to part ways with him.
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UFC 316: The face of women's MMA is being debated again — but is that even a thing?
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Advertisement His explosive bursts, heavy overhands, and willingness to mix up striking with takedowns make him a constant threat, especially against fighters who rely heavily on reach and distance. Ashmouz's experience in overcoming adversity, returning from a long layoff and fighting multiple times in the UFC, underscores his resilience and fight IQ. While Salkilld is a dangerous striker with an impressive debut, Ashmouz's balanced approach and strong grappling could be the difference. If Ashmouz can close the distance, neutralize Salkilld's reach, and impose his wrestling, he can wear down the Australian prospect and control the fight on the mat. With a background as an IBJJL champion and a history of grinding out wins against aggressive opponents, Ashmouz is poised to drag Salkilld into deep waters, where his pressure and ground-and-pound can secure a decision or late stoppage victory. Final Quillan Salkilld-Yanal Ashmouz Prediction & Pick Quillan Salkilld vs. Yanal Ashmouz at UFC 316 shapes up as a classic striker-versus-grappler matchup with high stakes for both lightweights. Salkilld enters as a significant favorite, riding an eight-fight win streak and coming off a spectacular 19-second knockout in his UFC debut. Advertisement Ashmouz, however, is no stranger to adversity. He rebounded from his first career loss with a dominant decision win over Trevor Peek, utilizing smart fight IQ, relentless wrestling, and top control to neutralize his opponent. While Ashmouz is giving up size and power, his experience and ability to adapt could make this a closer contest than the odds suggest. If he can weather Salkilld's early storm and drag the fight into deeper waters, his grappling could become a factor. Expect Salkilld to keep the fight standing, use his reach, and land heavy shots for a knockout win to extend his winning streak. 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