Dana White activates ‘Canelo hands’ with surprising Belal Muhammad announcement

UFC CEO Dana White announces Belal Muhammad's first-ever UFC welterweight title defense against Australian fighter.

Dana White activates ‘Canelo hands’ with surprising Belal Muhammad announcement

Belal Muhammad is ready to continue his dominant streak with the latest fight announcement (via Imago/X)

Belal Muhammad defied the odds at UFC 304 to claim the UFC welterweight title by beating Leon Edwards. Till now, fans have been more intrigued by his first title defense, potentially against someone like Shavkat Rakhmonov. It appears that UFC CEO Dana White has already set the stage for it as revealed in his latest update. However, there is a surprise attached to it. 

Muhammad was initially scheduled to fight against Rakhmonov at UFC 310, but had to pull out due to an injury. Many thought the Kazakh fighter would be next in the line, but it seems White had other plans. In a recent announcement, the CEO announced Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena for the main event of UFC 315. The champion reacted to it with a sharp message on social media. 

Canelo hands are activated.

Belal Muhammad via X
YouTube video

The ‘Canelo hands’ reference comes from his title fight against Edwards last year. Ahead of that fight, Muhammad claimed that he got hands like Canelo when it came to striking. As expected, he was laughed at by fans as well as the Brit. However, during the fight, he managed to outclass Edwards everywhere, including the stand up exchanges.

According to the welterweight rankings, Rakhmonov is the most appropriate contender for the title. White mentioned that they tried to rebook Muhammad vs. ‘Nomad’, but the top challenger was injured. Della Maddalena is currently on an incredible undefeated streak, and fans are excited for this title bout. 

Belal Muhammad mocks former rival over fight announcement 

Belal Muhammad faced years of setbacks, being overlooked despite an impressive unbeaten streak. He endured injuries, short-notice fights, and constant callouts with no response. After relentless campaigning and dominant performances, he finally earned his title shot. 

Belal Muhammad beats Leon Edwards at UFC 304
Belal Muhammad beats Leon Edwards at UFC 304 (via X)

The Palestinian-American fighter proved that persistence and skill could overcome the UFC’s often unpredictable matchmaking. On top of that, he absolutely dominated Leon Edwards in the title fight. In a recent tweet, the champion made sure to continue his trash-talking about his old rival.

Dang I stole Leon’s belt and his opponent.

Belal Muhammad via X 

It was expected that Edwards would fight Jack Della Maddalena for his comeback fight. However, now with this new development, ‘Rocky’ will have to settle with fighting Sean Brady. The fight will take place in the main event of UFC London, which will happen in March. It would be interesting to see how the English fans welcome their homegrown superstar after his last loss.

Related: Shavkat Rakhmonov Net Worth, UFC salary, Endorsements and House