Belal Muhammad targets GSP-esque run at welterweight starting with Shavkat Rakhmonov fight reveals coach
Belal Muhammad's coach talks about him potentially going past Georges St-Pierre as he fights Shavkat Rakhmonov in the future.
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Belal Muhammad and Shavkat Rakhmonov (via Imago/X)
Belal Muhammad had a successful year as he became the UFC welterweight champion by defeating Leon Edwards at UFC 304. ‘Remember The Name’ shocked everyone with his dominating performance and solidified his position as one of the best on the roster. However, the fighter doesn’t want to stop and is ready to start his 2025 with a title defense against Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Muhammad had to wait a long time for his title shot. He impressed many fans at UFC 304 and intends to continue to do so in the future. In a recent interview, his coach stated that the fighter aims to leave a stronger legacy than Georges St-Pierre.
His first goal was to be the UFC welterweight champion. Checkmate. Done. His next goal is to climb that ladder and prove to all the haters he is a GOAT at that weight class…He wants to pass up (Kamaru)Usman. He wants to pass up Matt Hughes, and potentially even get up there next to GSP
Belal Muhammad via Parry Punch
The welterweight division has always been one of the most competitive, delivering iconic fights and legendary champions like Georges St-Pierre. GSP is often regarded as the greatest of all time and epitomizes excellence with his skill, strategy, and unparalleled dedication. A complete fighter in every sense, GSP defended his title nine times, cementing his legacy as a dominant and respected champion.
??NEW: Belal Muhammad’s coach Louis Taylor reveals the new goal for their camp after capturing the UFC welterweight title. ??
— Parry Punch (@ParryPunchNews) December 29, 2024
“Belal wants to prove to the world that he’s one of the greatest, if not the greatest, welterweight of all time. That is his new goal. His first goal… pic.twitter.com/yrdMde61cw
Muhammad’s coach also mentioned Kamaru Usman, who is another dominant champion. In order to beat them, Muhammad will have to keep his reign long and fight multiple tough challengers. Going forward, Shavkat Rakhmonov is definitely one of them, and fans are excited for the fight.
Belal Muhammad warns his potential opponent Shavkat Rakhmonov
Belal Muhammad and Shavkat Rakhmonov were initially scheduled to face off at UFC 310. However, an injury forced Muhammad to withdraw from the bout, leaving Rakhmonov without an opponent. The UFC then approached Ian Garry, who stepped in as a replacement. Despite the short notice, the fight was highly competitive, and Rakhmonov ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory.
It was the first fight of Rakhmonov’s career where he didn’t get a finish, which raised doubts among fight fans. Belal Muhammad was there to watch the fight and also accepted to fight Rakhmonov next. The champion later expressed that he is going to dominate whenever he fights Rakhmonov.
I’m gonna be the one with the foot on the gas. Pushing him on the fence, taking him down and letting him back up…If you have never felt that before, you are going to be drowning. It’s gonna feel like quicksand.
Belal Muhammad via ESPN MMA
Muhammad is well known for his relentless pressure and the ability to take down opponents. Against Leon Edwards, he also showed his crisp striking, which makes him dangerous everywhere. The fight is yet to be announced, but it is expected to take place in the first half of 2025.
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Ameetosh Dash
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