Former UFC competitors Muhammad Mokaev and Sam Alvey demonstrated their enduring skills by securing impressive victories at Karate Combat 54 in Dubai.
Both veterans, who previously competed in the UFC, made strong statements in their respective returns to combat sports. Sam Alvey was featured in the main event, where he successfully defended his Karate Combat heavyweight championship against the experienced kickboxer Tyrone Spong. In a thrilling bout, Alvey delivered a powerful knockout in the second round, retaining his title and enhancing his standing within the promotion.
Muhammad Mokaev, making his first appearance in the Karate Combat format (known as the pit), also put on a standout performance. Facing Bolat Zamanbekov in the co-main event, Mokaev ended the fight decisively with a combination initiated by brutal body shots, followed by a flying knee against the pit wall, securing a memorable victory in his debut.
These highlight-reel finishes by Alvey and Mokaev, both having previously parted ways with the UFC, could potentially attract the attention of UFC matchmakers. Their dominant displays of skill and finishing ability at KC 54 present a compelling case for a possible return to the premier mixed martial arts organization.
The Karate Combat 54 event also included a submission grappling match involving UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, further adding to a night of diverse combat sports action, though the finishing performances by Mokaev and Alvey were particularly noteworthy.
Rupert Hartwell