Belal Muhammad Gives Fans Heads Up on Islam Makhachev’s Plan for Next Fight

Former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad weighs in on teammate Islam Makhachev's first title defense.

Belal Muhammad Gives Fans Heads Up on Islam Makhachev’s Plan for Next Fight

Belal Muhammad talks about Islam Makhachev's future plan (via MMA Fighting, TNT Sports)

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The welterweight division underwent a major shift following UFC 322, reshaping the hierarchy at the top. Islam Makhachev emerged as the new champion after a dominant performance against Jack Della Maddalena. His victory marked a significant moment for the division and immediately prompted discussion around future matchups. Belal Muhammad recently weighed in on Makhachev’s first defense.

At the same time, several contenders strengthened their cases for a title opportunity. Michael Morales elevated his standing by knocking out then-No. 1 contender Sean Brady, extending his unbeaten run. Carlos Prates also surged forward after stopping former welterweight champion Leon Edwards in decisive fashion. Both results added depth and urgency to the title conversation.

One week later, Muhammad returned to action while attempting to remain positioned for a future title opportunity. He suffered a unanimous decision loss to Ian Garry, slowing his momentum in a crowded division at UFC Qatar. The defeat complicated his immediate path back toward contention. Despite the setback, Muhammad continued to address the evolving welterweight title picture.

I think Michael Morales for sure has earned it [a title shot]. I mean, what else more do you have to do? We see the seeds planted. We see Islam planting the seeds of Usman should be the next guy. They have the same manager. The manager is planting the seed in his head. Usman is an easier matchup for Islam.

Belal Muhammad via X

‘Bully B’ also suggested that Kamaru Usman was being positioned as a potential first challenger for the newly crowned champion. Makhachev has acknowledged Usman as a possible opponent at 170 pounds. The consideration stems from Usman’s long and dominant reign as welterweight champion. His experience continues to factor into championship matchmaking discussions.

Muhammad also directed criticism toward Ali Abdelaziz, the longtime manager he shares with Makhachev. Abdelaziz has recently come under scrutiny within the MMA community after asserting that Usman is the only viable contender for the Dagestani champion. That stance has drawn attention due to the depth of the welterweight division.

Muhammad and Makhachev were teammates under Khabib Nurmagomedov’s camp at some portions of their careers. Both fighters previously agreed to avoid competing against one another while climbing the rankings. That understanding shaped their parallel rises within the division. Recently, ‘Remember the name’ revealed that he has not ruled out facing Makhachev if a title opportunity requires it.

Belal Muhammad’s chances of securing another title shot remain uncertain as he reaches the latter stage of his career. At 37 years old, he is competing against a younger wave of welterweight contenders. The division continues to evolve rapidly with new challengers emerging. It remains to be seen who Islam Makhachev will face in his first welterweight title defense.

Belal Muhammad talks about Khamzat Chimaev’s wrestling prowess

Khamzat Chimaev is one of the most dominant wrestlers in the UFC, known for his relentless, high-pressure grappling style. His skills were on full display at UFC 319, where he defeated Dricus Du Plessis in one of the most dominant decision victories in recent UFC history. The performance showcased his ability to control opponents from start to finish. Chimaev’s wrestling has become a defining feature of his rise.

Belal Muhammad on his brotherhood with Khamzat Chimaev
Belal Muhammad with Khamzat Chimaev (via Instagram)

Belal Muhammad’s relationship with Chimaev has been rocky, with the two fighters at times engaged in a heated rivalry. Despite their differences, they have found common ground through shared support for Palestine. Recently, Muhammad praised the Chechen superstar’s wrestling, acknowledging the technical dominance that makes him a formidable force in the octagon.

I mean, Alex Pereira’s going up to heavyweight, but that would leave an opening at 205, where it could be Jiri against Chimaev, which I think would be a fun one, for sure. I mean, I think Chimaev’s wrestling is good enough to go up to heavyweight if you wanted to. You’ve seen how he picked up Jon Jones recently in their video. What do I think will happen? I don’t know.

Belal Muhammad via X

Muhammad’s comments were influenced by a video showing Chimaev wrestling playfully with Jon Jones on the streets of Chechnya. While Jones was clearly not using his full strength, ‘Borz’ still executed takedowns with ease. The clip highlighted Chimaev’s superior grappling technique and control even in an informal setting.

High-pressure grappling is often criticized by casual fans as less exciting, focusing on control rather than striking. Belal Muhammad employs a similar style in his fights, emphasizing top control and positional dominance. Both fighters demonstrate how wrestling can dictate the pace and outcome of a match. Even if viewed as “boring” by some, the strategy is highly effective.

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