Chael Sonnen is advocating for the UFC to reinstate Muhammad Mokaev. After Mokaev’s victory over Manel Kape in Manchester, UFC CEO Dana White expressed that the promotion was not interested in retaining ‘The Punisher,’ despite his unbeaten 12-0 record and top-10 status.
Recently, speculation has arisen suggesting that Mokaev’s behavior behind the scenes was a serious issue, with the final straw being his altercation with Kape at their hotel before UFC 304. Additionally, Mokaev was alleged to have discussed terms with the PFL while still under UFC contract, a breach that likely caused further tension.
Mokaev has refuted claims of negotiating with the PFL and has continued to request his return to the UFC, even offering to forfeit his earnings for another opportunity to fight.
On his YouTube channel, former UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen shared his perspective. He stated, “I’m not sure what Mokaev could have realistically done, but he has to either anger the matchmakers, who are generally very accommodating, or keep his actions hidden in an industry where secrecy is challenging.”
Sonnen admitted that while he is inclined to forgive Mokaev, he is unsure what exactly needs forgiveness, though he has his suspicions. He noted Mokaev’s genuine desire to remain in the UFC and his public acknowledgment of his mistakes, suggesting that such a stance warrants consideration.
Meanwhile, Mokaev may have already secured a new MMA opportunity. A recent social media post showed him with new MMA gloves from Top Ten, the official supplier for BRAVE CF, a promotion based in Bahrain where Mokaev fought before joining the UFC. Neither Mokaev nor BRAVE CF have commented on these developments.