Mokaev Accuses UFC of Sabotaging Basharat's Career After Release

Key points

• Muhammad Mokaev stated on social media that the UFC should not create a 'bullsh*t narrative' about released fighters to damage their reputations.
• Mokaev argued that telling fighters they will be cut if they continue wrestling influences the competition and crosses an ethical line.
• Farid Basharat was released by the UFC in July 2026 after going 7-0 in the promotion and 16-0 overall, despite being ranked in the top 10 at bantamweight.
• Dana White previously suggested that Basharat's release was due to being 'hard to deal with' or refusing fights, rather than a lack of finishes.
• Mokaev, who is 4-0 since leaving the UFC in 2024, is currently ranked No. 7 at 125 pounds in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings.
• Javid Basharat, Farid's brother, also had his UFC contract not renewed in February 2026 and rejected White's claims about matchmaker difficulties.

Background

The UFC released Farid Basharat in July 2026 after his contract expired, despite his undefeated record. Dana White cited off-cage behavior and matchmaker issues as reasons for the decision. Basharat denied these claims, arguing the UFC prioritizes brawling over technical skill. This follows a similar release of his brother, Javid Basharat, earlier in 2026. Muhammad Mokaev was also released by the UFC in 2024 despite being undefeated, citing a lack of finishes and an altercation during fight week.

How outlets are covering it

MMA Fighting reported that Mokaev criticized the UFC for creating a negative narrative around Basharat's release, arguing it damages the fighter's reputation and hinders their ability to sign with other organizations. MMA Mania reported that Dana White remained vague about the specific reasons for Basharat's release, stating that fighters are sometimes cut for being difficult to deal with or refusing fights. MMA Mania also noted that the UFC has been criticized for prioritizing viral moments and cheap talent over technical skill. Sherdog reported that Javid Basharat rejected White's suggestion that matchmaker difficulties or declined fights could explain his brother's departure. The outlets differ in their emphasis: MMA Fighting focuses on Mokaev's criticism of the UFC's narrative, while MMA Mania focuses on White's vague explanation and the UFC's business practices. Sherdog focuses on the Basharat family's rejection of White's claims.

Why it matters

The release of undefeated fighters like Farid Basharat and Muhammad Mokaev highlights the UFC's willingness to cut top-ranked contenders for off-cage reasons or perceived lack of entertainment value. This raises questions about the promotion's commitment to sporting merit and its impact on fighters' careers outside the UFC. The controversy also underscores the tension between the UFC's business model and the expectations of fans and fighters for a fair and transparent process.

What to watch

Farid Basharat is now a free agent and may seek a contract with another organization. Muhammad Mokaev continues to fight outside the UFC and is ranked No. 7 at 125 pounds. The UFC may face further criticism for its handling of fighter releases and the narratives it creates around them. Dana White may face more scrutiny over his role in fighter negotiations and the reasons for releasing undefeated fighters.