‘It’s a shame” – Tom Aspinall disagrees with Dana White and UFC’s decision to let go of compatriot Muhammad Mokaev

UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall doesn't support Dana White's decision to cut Muhammad Mokaev from UFC after UFC 304.

‘It’s a shame” – Tom Aspinall disagrees with Dana White and UFC’s decision to let go of compatriot Muhammad Mokaev

Tom Aspinall talks about Dana White not re-signing Muhammad Mokaev (via Imago)

UFC 304 featured a lot of controversy, both inside and outside the octagon. Muhammad Mokaev was one of the individuals at the center of the drama. It was indeed his final bout under contract, and Dana White was not prepared to re-sign the Brit. Given the situation, Tom Aspinall didn’t shy away from sharing his disappointment. 

Muhammad Mokaev faced Manel Kape and beat him via unanimous decision. However, the drama that the two emitted before the fight had a significant negative impact on Mokaev. White was visibly annoyed at the post-fight presser and mentioned that Mokaev would probably join the PFL. In a recent interview, Tom Aspinall backed Muhammad Mokaev and mentioned that UFC was harsh with the situation.

This has happened before, all this beef in the hotel... it's not the first time so I think it's a bit unfair on him just to kick him out indefinitely…I think it's a shame but it's not my call. 
Tom Aspinall via Froch on Fighting
YouTube video

Other than Tom Aspinall, former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling has also shared the same thoughts and has come forward to support Mokaev. The existing rumors of Mokaev’s connections to PFL were dispelled by the president of the promotion himself. Moreover, the PFL President announced that they had no intentions of signing the Dagestani-born fighter. 

FS Video

Muhammad Mokaev has done everything to get back into the promotion. The Brit announced that he would fight for free in the promotion as it was his dream to become a UFC champion. However, the promotion has not yet responded and hasn’t stopped trying. He has tweeted pleas directed at the UFC to take him back in, claiming that he has learned the lesson. 

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Muhammad Mokaev was born in Dagestan, Russia, but immigrated to the United Kingdom as a child with his father. Mokaev trains mostly with the KHK MMA team, but he also works extensively with British-based organizations in the country.

Tom Aspinall's relationship with Muhammad Mokaev
Tom Aspinall’s relationship with Muhammad Mokaev (via X)

Mokaev met and trained with Tom Aspinall shortly after arriving in England. Despite being in different weight classes, the two had known each other for a long time. In this scenario, it was obvious that Aspinall supported his long-time friend. For that, Mokaev is also grateful. 

Appreciate the support brother.
Muhammad Mokaev via X

Tom Aspinall fought UFC 304 and ended up defeating Curtis Blaydes to defend his interim heavyweight championship. He was aware that Mokaev’s fight was rather boring.  However, he also mentioned that there’s more to the story behind the abrupt cutting of Mokaev from the promotion. While Mokaev enjoys his time in Abu Dhabi, it would be interesting to see if the promotion changes its stance on the fighter. 

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