Muhammad Mokaev ready to etch his name in BRAVE CF history on Bahraini soil

From dominating the amateur scene to establishing his name among the world’s elite flyweights, Muhammad Mokaev has overcome almost every challenge thrown at him.

In the co-attraction of BRAVE 100 on Friday, November 7, the Dagestani-born Englishman is on the threshold of the only award that has eluded him: a World Championship.

He is set to clash with Gerard ‘The Animal’ Burns for the inaugural BRAVE CF flyweight world title at Khalifa Sports City in Isa Town. He is determined to claim the coveted gold where it all began: in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

“Bahrain will always have a special place in my heart,” Mokaev said emotionally. “It’s where I’ve had some of the greatest moments of my career, both as an amateur and as a professional. This country feels like my second home.”

For the 25-year-old phenom, Bahrain will not only host his next fight at Khalifa Sports City in Isa Town; it is the canvas on which his story as a mixed martial artist is painted.

During his decorated amateur days, Mokaev rose to prominence in the same country, collecting gold medals and respect from fans and peers alike.

When he turned professional in 2020, BRAVE Combat Federation – founded and based in Bahrain – welcomed him with open arms.

Mokaev lived up to immense expectations as the young man hailed to lead the promotion’s flyweight division into the future.

“The Punisher” did not disappoint. Over the course of five matches under the BRAVE CF banner, he proved his pedigree, winning four matches (two by submission) and establishing himself as one of the smartest players in the sport.

“Bahrain became even more meaningful to me thanks to BRAVE CF,” Mokaev said. “This promotion believed in me from the start and gave me the platform to show who I really am as a fighter.”

That bond between Mokaev and Bahrain became even closer when he returned triumphantly BRAVE CF 91 December 2024.

In a symbolic homecoming, he submitted Filipino opponent Joevincent So in the opening round via submission – a statement that his hunger for greatness remained undiminished.

Now, as he prepares COURAGE 100the stakes couldn’t be higher. A world title – the only piece missing from his legacy – is within reach.

“Winning my first world title here, in Bahrain, would mean the world to me,” Mokaev said. “It’s where my dreams took shape, where I grew as a fighter and as a man. If I became world champion in this place – my second home – it would be full circle.”