Belal Muhammad, the current UFC welterweight champion, has been in a heated feud with Kamaru Usman, the former welterweight champion. Despite their rivalry, Muhammad holds a deep respect for Usman’s skills inside the octagon. As Muhammad gears up for his first title defense, he is faced with the decision of either facing Usman or Shavkat Rakhmonov in December.
Challenging the Toughest Opponent
When asked about whom he considers to be the tougher fight, Muhammad pointed towards Usman. He emphasized Usman’s extensive experience at the highest level of competition, having been a five-time defending champion. Muhammad acknowledged Usman’s exceptional fight IQ, making him a formidable opponent in the octagon. The prospect of facing someone with a similar fight IQ as himself presents a unique challenge for Muhammad.
Usman’s Recent Setbacks
Usman may be on a three-fight losing streak, but Muhammad believes he deserves the benefit of the doubt. He specifically references Usman’s short-notice loss to Khamzat Chimaev at middleweight, highlighting the challenges faced in that particular bout. Muhammad emphasized that Usman still has plenty of fight left in him, despite the recent setbacks. He commended Usman for his performance against Chimaev, noting the competitive nature of the fight.
During the bout with Chimaev, Usman showcased his ability to make his opponents look mortal, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Muhammad expressed curiosity about how the fight would have unfolded if it had gone on for a few more rounds. He highlighted Usman’s ability to challenge even the most dominant opponents, turning them into mortal competitors. The fight served as a testament to Usman’s resilience and adaptability in the octagon.
As Belal Muhammad prepares for his first title defense, the looming prospect of facing either Kamaru Usman or Shavkat Rakhmonov presents a significant challenge. Despite his respect for Usman’s game and accomplishments, Muhammad remains focused on the task at hand. The UFC welterweight division is filled with talented fighters, each posing a unique challenge for the reigning champion. Muhammad’s perspective on the challenges ahead offers insight into the mindset of a champion preparing for the ultimate test in the octagon.