It was a successful return to action for Muhammad Mokaev (13-0) on Friday, as he emerged victorious from his first fight since departing the UFC earlier this year.
Mokaev's tenure on mixed martial arts' biggest stage came to a surprise end this past July. After extending his perfect professional and Octagon records with a victory over Manel Kape at UFC 304, "The Punisher's" contract wasn't renewed.
UFC CEO Dana White announced the shock decision during the post-fight press conference in Manchester, putting it down to facts outside of the cage, including issues the matchmakers and Hunter Campbell had dealing with the flyweight up-and-comer.
With his pleas for an immediate return to the promotion falling on deaf ears, Mokaev has frequently vowed to earn his spot back on the UFC roster. And the first step toward achieving that got underway Friday in Bahrain.
Mokaev made his return to one of his former organizations, competing at Brave CF 91. After his original opponent withdrew, the Dagestan-born Brit shared the cage with replacement Joevincent So on two days' notice.
"Chain" didn't last long, falling by way of submission in under two minutes after being dragged down and locked in a D'arce choke.
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It remains to be seen what the future holds for Mokaev, as well as the specifics of his contractual agreement with Brave CF.
But with UFC Flyweight Champion Alexandre Pantoja appearing short on fresh options following his third title defense last weekend, perhaps an Octagon return will arrive sooner rather than later for "The Punisher" following an emphatic outing on Dec. 13.