A highly anticipated matchup between two of the world’s best non-UFC flyweights has fallen apart just days before the blockbuster Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card.
Most Valuable Promotions confirmed Saturday that Muhammad Mokaev has been forced out of next weekend’s Netflix event due to visa complications, resulting in a late opponent change for Adriano Moraes ahead of the May 16 card at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
Instead, undefeated prospect Phumi Nkuta will now step in on short notice to face Moraes in a 130-pound catchweight bout.
Muhammad Mokaev Suffers Frustrating Setback Ahead Of Massive Netflix Card
Mokaev’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the event, given the intrigue surrounding the matchup. The undefeated flyweight was widely viewed as one of the standout names attached to the card, and many fans saw the fight as a potential statement opportunity that could help reopen the door to a UFC return.
The 25-year-old remains unbeaten in professional MMA with a 16-0 record and previously went 7-0 inside the UFC before his surprising release in 2024. During his time with the promotion, Mokaev picked up victories over notable names such as Manel Kape, Alex Perez, and Tim Elliott.
Since leaving the UFC, Mokaev has continued winning outside the promotion and even captured the inaugural Brave CF flyweight championship last year.
His replacement, Nkuta, enters the spotlight carrying an undefeated 11-0 professional record. The South African-born flyweight has competed for promotions such as Bellator, LFA, and CFFC, where he previously held championship gold.
Meanwhile, Moraes enters the matchup looking to rebound from recent struggles. The longtime ONE Championship standout famously defeated Demetrious Johnson during his title reign, though he has dropped three of his last four fights heading into the Netflix event.
The May 16 card remains stacked despite the late change, featuring appearances from stars such as Francis Ngannou, Nate Diaz, and Junior dos Santos.