In Dana White’s three decades at the UFC, few fighters have tested the patience of the UFC CEO quite like undefeated flyweight star Muhammad Mokaev . The 25-year-old prodigy from Dagestan, unlike many of his compatriots, carried a mischievous edge and conflicting traits that stirred tension within the promotion. After UFC 304 last year, despite Mokaev’s decisive victory over Manel Kape, Dana White released him and chose not to re-sign the rising Dagestani talent. Over the course of seven UFC fights, ‘The Punisher’ occasionally asked White to reconsider.

Yet the message from the top remained unwavering: “ It is what it is. ” While Dana White remained steadfast in his decision and clarified that he had no role in Mokaev’s departure, the UFC CEO placed the blame on matchmakers. As a

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