MMA – One of the most compelling rivalries in BRAVE Combat Federation today continues to drum up excitement, and it is safe to say that Borislav Nikolic has not forgotten about Muhammad ‘The Punisher’ Mokaev one bit.
Fresh off a sensational walk-off knockout victory over Matheus Malta in their 64kg catchweight contest at BRAVE CF 104, the reigning BRAVE CF bantamweight world champion wasted no time calling out Mokaev.
Competing in front of a roaring hometown crowd at Belgrade’s Aleksandar Nikolic Hall, the Serbian superstar delivered a statement performance, flattening his Portuguese opponent in emphatic fashion, leaving no doubt that he remains one of the most dangerous forces under the BRAVE CF banner.
But even before the cheers had settled, his focus had already shifted. With fire in his eyes, Nikolic made it crystal clear that his unfinished business with Mokaev still lingers.
“I was looking around after the knockout, and I thought maybe Mokaev would appear again,” Nikolic said with a smirk.
“He likes to show up when I win, right? Where are you now? I am right here.”
The tension between the two world champions dates back to the historic BRAVE 100 last November.
After Nikolic successfully defended his bantamweight crown against Hamza ‘Pride of Bahrain’ Kooheji, Mokaev entered the cage fresh off capturing the inaugural flyweight strap and went nose-to-nose with the Serbian.
At that moment, Mokaev boldly expressed his desire to move up in weight and challenge Nikolic for his throne, teasing a blockbuster titleholder-versus-titleholder showdown.
For Nikolic, the answer remains the same.
“I respect what he has done, but if he wants to come up and test himself, I am ready,” he stated.
“Just tell me the time and the location. I will be there. A champion does not hide.”
The potential super fight has captured the imagination of fans worldwide, but Nikolic’s schedule is far from empty.
Lurking in the bantamweight rankings is number two contender Lasha Abramishvili, who has racked up three straight finishes inside the BRAVE CF cage and is eager for his shot at gold.
There is also former BRAVE CF bantamweight world champion Stephen ‘The Sniper’ Loman, who officially returned to the organisation last December and is expected to report for duty in the second quarter of 2026.
Still, Nikolic welcomes every challenge that comes his way. “I am a fighting champion,” he declared.
“It does not matter if it is Mokaev, Abramishvili, Loman, or anyone else. I will defend my belt against the best. That is what BRAVE champions do.”
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