Muhammad Mokaev will not compete at the Rousey vs Carano event scheduled for May 16. The withdrawal is reportedly due to visa problems, though specific details about the nature of these issues are not provided. No information is given about a potential replacement opponent or whether Mokaev's fight will be rescheduled. The post does not clarify which promotion is organizing the Rousey-Carano event.
Muhammad Mokaev has been forced to withdraw from the Rousey vs. Carano event on May 16, 2026, due to visa problems that have prevented him from competing on the card.
Mokaev, nicknamed "The Punisher," enters this period of uncertainty as one of MMA's last remaining unbeaten prospects. The 25-year-old Englishman, who trains out of KHK MMA, carries a perfect 13-0-0 professional record. Standing five-foot-seven with a 70-inch reach, the orthodox grappler has built his reputation on relentless wrestling, averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes across his career. He also generates 1.61 significant strikes landed per minute, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive game to complement his takedown-heavy approach.
No details have been provided about the specific nature of the visa complications, and there is currently no word on whether a replacement opponent has been found or whether Mokaev's bout will be rescheduled for a future date. The promotion behind the Rousey vs. Carano event has also not been identified in connection with the withdrawal announcement.
Why it matters
- Mokaev's unbeaten record makes any scheduling disruption notable, as his path toward a title shot could be delayed
- Visa issues affecting fighters traveling internationally remain an unpredictable obstacle for event organizers
- The card loses a high-profile undefeated prospect with no confirmed replacement or rescheduling yet in place
