Muhammad Mokaev Shrugs Off Khabib Nurmagomedov Comparisons: “I Have A Different Story”
Muhammad Mokaev credits Khabib Nurmagomedov for bringing attention to Dagestani fighters; however, Mokaev is on a journey all his own.
UFC lightweight champion Nurmagomedov’s domination in the Octagon has brought a lot of attention to Dagestan. Sprinkle in rising stars like Zabit Magomedsharipov and Islam Makhachev, and you have a recipe for success. Mokaev gives “The Eagle” all the credit in the world, but “The Punisher” is on his own path of destruction.
“Nobody knew about Dagestan when I came to U.K. I had to show people on a map. Now everyone knows thanks to Khabib. We have a huge history, Khabib helped to promote it. It’s a lot easier because when people know where you’re coming from they treat you different,” he explained. “I don’t like when people compare me to Khabib because I have a different story, things I am doing on my own in a different country. I have a huge amateur career, becoming a two-time champion, winning the Oceanic and European champions.”
And do not get Mokaev started on the hat.
“Some people do because I wear this hat, but it’s a traditional hat,” he explained. “If I start wearing this hat now, it might look like I’m copying Khabib. But I’ve been wearing this hat since 2013…”
Mokaev got his start in wrestling at a young age. Seeking further challenges, Mokaev begna training jiu-jitsu. Finding success against professional mixed martial artists in jiu-jitsu implored “The Punisher” to embark on an MMA career..
“I started wrestling first. When I was winning British championships, three, four, five times, I was getting bored. I couldn’t travel abroad because of my passport. I had to find challenges, find things to do,” Mokaev explained. “I wanted to find things to get excited about. My team and I were travelling around the U.K.”
Mokaev has won by decision, knockout, submission and submission due to strikes in his four professional outings. He also amassed a remarkable 23-0 record as an amateur.
Fightful has all of your MMA needs covered. Follow us on Twitter for updates, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive interviews, lists, news updates, and predictions.
