Muhammad Mokaev suffered an injury that could jeopardize his desired return at UFC London.
Mokaev (8-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) has been campaigning for a spot on the UFC 286 card March 18 at The O2 in London, but a dislocated right shoulder could put a halt to his plans.
Despite the need for surgery, it appears Mokaev is hoping for a quick recovery.
“Exact same day last year I have broke my hand before my ufc debut in London, I will do everything to fight on ufc London card! I tried to keep the operation till after the fight but I can’t even lift my arm.”
Exact same day last year I have broke my hand before my ufc debut in London, I will do everything to fight on ufc London card!
I tried to keep the operation till after the fight but I can’t even lift my arm— Muhammad Mokaev (@muhammadmokaev) December 30, 2022
Mokaev’s first two octagon bouts took place in London. He quickly submitted Cody Durden in March, then scored a lopsided decision over Charles Johnson in July. He closed out his year with a submission of Malcolm Gordon at UFC 280 in October.
The unbeaten 22-year-old has plans to become the youngest champion in UFC history, hence his eagerness to stay active. However, in a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Mokaev said he continues to struggle finding opponents and expressed interest in a matchup with top 10-ranked flyweight Amir Albazi.