Brandon Royval and Muhammad Mokaev might just be on a crash course. They’re eyeing the next shot at the 125-pound title.
Mokaev’s been vocal about wanting a title shot after his win against Alex Perez. This was at UFC Fight Night 238 last Saturday. But Royval? He’s not sitting quietly. Just a week before, he dazzled against former champ Brandon Moreno at UFC Mexico. Now, he’s shouting for his title chance.
Royval didn’t hold back on his thoughts about Mokaev’s fight. Called it “boring,” even. Said Mokaev’s performance against Perez didn’t scream ‘title shot worthy’ to him. This was all spilled on “The MMA Hour.”
“Every time I see that kid fight, I’m like, ‘Yawn. Next, please.’ He might start strong, but by the end? Forgettable.” That’s Royval, not mincing words.
The flyweight division’s a bit of a mess right now. Injuries, losses… it’s chaotic. Mokaev seemed like a shoo-in for the next title contender spot after beating Perez. But Royval, who feared an MCL injury in his fight, is now back in the mix, declaring himself ready for the title chase.
Both fighters are eyeing Alexandre Pantoja, who’s likely defending his title in Rio de Janeiro. Mokaev’s called out Royval for a bout in Manchester this July. Threw some shade Royval’s way, too.
Royval’s response? He’s game for a fight against Mokaev if that’s what the UFC wants. “I love that matchup,” he said. It’s a fight he wouldn’t dodge. They’ve been circling each other for a year now. So, if it comes down to it, Royval’s ready. But maybe not in the next two months. He’d like a bit more time.