LAS VEGAS – Muhammad Mokaev admits decisions don’t typically help resumes when it comes to UFC title shots, but is confident other aspects of his streak make up for the isolated shortcoming.
At UFC Fight Night 238, Mokaev (11-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) won a unanimous decision over former UFC title challenger Alex Perez (24-8 MMA, 6-4 UFC) at the UFC Apex. Although he wanted a finish, Mokaev said he battled illness throughout the day that hindered his performance (and even provided receipts on X, in puke picture form).
“Last night, I had a sore throat,” Mokaev told MMA Junkie and other reporters at a post-fight news conference. “Then, in the morning I was throwing up. My team said, ‘Listen, you’ve been through tougher things in life.’ So I put my clothes on and went for a run. I did some rounds this morning at 7 in the morning. I felt a little bit better, went to sleep and came to the arena. Of course, I wasn’t myself. But for me, the main thing was to beat myself to turn up for the fight. Whatever. I know the UFC don’t like the decision. For me, I beat myself today. That was most important.”
