STRONG IMAGE: UFC promise reveals drama with serious infection that almost took him out of the fight

Mohammad Mokaev is undefeated in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @mokaev_muhammad

Mohammad Mokaev was unfazed by the difficulties he faced before his last fight in UFC Las Vegas 87, last Saturday (2). Flyweight (up to 56,7kg.), which beat Alex Perez by unanimous decision, he revealed that he had four staph infections in the weeks before the fight, which hampered his preparation and performance.

Staphylococci are bacteria that can cause infections in the skin, bones, joints and other organs. MMA fighters are more exposed to this type of infection, due to intense physical contact, frequent skin injuries and hygiene conditions that are not always adequate in gyms.

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A recent case of staphylococcal infection that drew attention was that of a Brazilian Paulo borrachinha, who had to leave the UFC and even had to be hospitalized due to the illness.

Mokaev, who has an undefeated record of 12 victories and one fight without result, said he had to take antibiotics, which affected his immune system and his recovery. On his profile on 'X' (formerly Twitter), he vented about the criticism he received on social media.

“For me the most important thing was to gain weight. 4 staph infections 3 weeks prior. Antibiotics killed my immune system. I see some haters talking shit about my performance, but you don't see what us fighters are going through!” she wrote.

Despite the adversities, Mokaev showed that he is one of the most promising names in the flyweight division and can challenge Alexandre pantoja No. UFC 301, in Rio de Janeiro. The 23-year-old Englishman dreams of becoming the youngest champion in UFC history, surpassing the record of Jon Jones, who won the light heavyweight title at 23 years and 8 months.

For me it was most important to make weight
4 staph infections 3 weeks out
Antibiotics killed my immune system
I see some haters talking shit about my performance but you don't see what we as fighters are going through! pic.twitter.com/euRfgI2OtU

— Muhammad Mokayev (@muhammadmokaev) March 3, 2024

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