Muhammad Mokaev won a decision victory over Alex Perez at UFC Vegas 87, but his performance was criticized by some, including Terrance McKinney and Brandon Royval, who suggested he is not ready for a title fight.
Muhammad Mokaev faced a tough one, no doubt. But did he do enough to get a shot at the UFC gold? Not everyone thinks so.
Before his UFC Vegas 87 fight with Alex Perez, Mokaev hinted that an “impressive” performance might catapult him to a title fight. He was eyeing the flyweight champion, Alexandre Pantoja, at UFC 301.
Mokaev’s wrestling skills did secure him a decision victory, maintaining his flawless professional record. But it wasn’t a walk in the park. Perez gave him a run for his money, challenging him in all three rounds.
Terrance McKinney didn’t mince words about Mokaev’s win. He tweeted that the 23-year-old is “not title fight ready.” Brandon Royval, another flyweight contender, seemed to agree.
Royval, also known as “Raw Dawg,” has been making his case for a fight with Pantoja. Pantoja has defeated him twice, including a recent bout at UFC 296. Royval had a good laugh at Mokaev’s UFC Vegas 87 performance, reminding everyone that he’s ready for UFC 301 if needed.
Check out how the pros reacted to Mokaev’s narrow win over Perez.
Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) tweeted, “Ugh I love the kid but def not title fight ready” on March 2, 2024.
Brandon (@brandonroyval) chimed in, “This is y’all’s boy” on the same day.
He also added, “Anyways I’ll be ready for UFC 301 lol Perez 29-28.”
Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) thought, “Muhammad did enough ..his striking is good he needs to believe in it more Perez was ready for wrestling.”
Derek Brunson (@DerekBrunson) joked, “Only shot Mokaev is getting after that fight, is one at the bar! Just jokes don’t come for me.”
Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) offered some advice, “Mokaev should get the nod here but he’s gonna need to vastly improve his striking if he wants a shot at dethroning Pantoja. His footwork and his integration of his striking to set up his takedowns is gonna need work as well.”