UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, fresh off his title victory over Leon Edwards at UFC 304, is already looking ahead to his first title defense. While the conversation about his next challenger heats up, Muhammad is adamant that his opponent should have to earn the opportunity. In a recent interview with MMA Junkie Radio, Muhammad expressed his desire to take on a worthy competitor and put his title on the line.
Shavkat Rakhmonov, currently ranked No. 3 in the welterweight division, has openly called out Muhammad for turning down a potential matchup in October. In response to Rakhmonov’s challenge, Muhammad pointed out the inactivity of his rival and suggested that a fight between Rakhmonov and former champion Kamaru Usman could determine the true number one contender.
Despite Rakhmonov’s record and his victory over Stephen Thompson, Muhammad made it clear that he would not be ready to return to the octagon in October. Instead, he proposed a matchup between Rakhmonov and Usman to decide the rightful challenger for the title. However, Muhammad hinted at the UFC’s inclination to give Rakhmonov a direct shot at the championship, as seen in his social media posts.
Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, currently on a three-fight losing streak, is also in the mix for a potential title shot. Despite his recent losses, Usman remains a formidable competitor in the division. Rakhmonov believes he has already proven himself as a top contender and anticipates a tough fight against Muhammad if they are matched up in the future.
In the competitive world of UFC welterweight fighting, the landscape is constantly evolving. With Belal Muhammad as the reigning champion, the pressure is on for potential challengers like Shavkat Rakhmonov and Kamaru Usman to make their case for a title shot. While Muhammad advocates for earning the opportunity, the final decision rests with the UFC and its matchmaking strategies. As the welterweight division continues to showcase exciting matchups, fans can anticipate thrilling bouts in the near future.