Preview: UFC 286 Prelims

Flyweights

#12 FLW | Muhammad Mokaev (9-0, 3-0 UFC) vs. Jafel Cavalcante Filho (14-2, 0-0 UFC)

ODDS: Mokaev (-800), Filho (+575)

The Mokaev hype train chugs on. Born in Dagestan and raised in England, “The Punisher” was a particularly interesting prospect upon entering the UFC ranks about a year ago. He spent years as a decorated amateur fighter as a teenager, resulting in an impressive amount of fighting instincts and feel for someone so young. Mokaev’s upside has always been clearly apparent, but there was some question as to how quickly he could hit the ground running in the UFC. Still in his early 20s and not having fully matured physically, there was some worry that Mokaev’s wrestling-heavy approach could get stalled out by stronger UFC-level athletes. So far, so good. After a scintillating UFC debut that saw him run through Cody Durden, Mokaev has won absolute grinds over Charles Johnson and Malcolm Gordon. Neither may have been particularly entertaining in a vacuum, but it was an impressive proof of concept that Mokaev can control and wear out some solid grapplers as the base of his game while he figures out the rest. Mokaev has kept an active schedule, but the UFC continues to slow-play him a bit here against a UFC newcomer in Filho, who was a contract winner on Dana White’s Contender Series in September. The Brazilian is a solid addition to the UFC’s flyweight ranks but is at his best as a wrestler and grappler, meaning he will look to beat Mokaev at his own game. There is certainly a chance for him to find some opportunities, but in general, that looks like a losing battle. Filho has not been an overwhelming force on the regional scene, and Mokaev has proven more than enough at this point to earn the benefit of the doubt. The pick is Mokaev via clear decision.

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