Muhammad Mokaev and Junior dos Santos join Ronda Rousey undercard
Undefeated British flyweight Muhammad Mokaev and former heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos will fight on the undercard of Ronda Rousey’s comeback event in Los Angeles on 16 May.
The highly-anticipated card at the Intuit Dome is headlined by Rousey’s return to competition against American pioneer Gina Carano.
Mokaev will face former ONE Championship star Adriano Moraes in a high-profile mixed martial arts bout.
Meanwhile, Brazilian veteran Dos Santos is set to clash with Cuban heavyweight Robelis Despaigne.
Mokaev seeks to extend unbeaten run
The Manchester resident is widely regarded as the best unsigned flyweight prospect in world MMA.
Having moved to England as a child following the death of his mother, the KHK MMA Team representative built a formidable 23-0 amateur record.
The lightning-fast grappler successfully transitioned those skills to the professional ranks, remaining undefeated across multiple global promotions.
Seven of his most impressive professional victories were secured during his recent tenure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
“Respect to all involved, I can’t wait to put on a great performance,” Mokaev said.
Veteran pedigree added to California bill
His Brazilian opponent will present a stern test of those undefeated credentials.
Moraes made history as the first-ever flyweight champion in ONE Championship, capturing the world title on multiple occasions.
“I didn’t come from an easy life, but I chose to turn every struggle into strength,” the submission specialist explained.
“Every time I step into the cage, I carry my story, my faith, and the belief that hard work always pays off.”
Heavyweight firepower guaranteed
Further up the weight classes, the addition of Dos Santos brings elite heavyweight pedigree to the event.
The 42-year-old famously captured the UFC heavyweight crown in 2011 by knocking out Cain Velasquez in just 64 seconds.
Known for his blistering hand speed and knockout power, the Brazilian striker has previously shared the cage with legendary figures like Stipe Miocic and Francis Ngannou.
“I’m so excited to be fighting again,” Dos Santos said.
“Fighting is my greatest motivation, the type of challenge that feeds my soul.”
