Steve Erceg and Muhammad Mokaev won't be sharing holiday cards anytime soon.
Like the rest of the MMA world, Erceg didn't expect to see his former fellow UFC flyweight contender part ways with the promotion after a unanimous decision win over Manel Kape in July 2024. Had it not been for Mokaev's approach to the situation and dealings behind the scenes, Erceg might have had more sympathy — when asked for his initial thoughts on the situation this past summer, Erceg responded by saying Mokaev "did it to himself." Mokaev was none too pleased after hearing what "Astro Boy" had to say, prompting a brief direct message (DM) exchange on social media.