Belal Muhammad got himself on the list of the highest-fighting IQ-level fighters in recent times. After losing the fight against Geoff Neal in 2019, Belal never faced a single defeat. “Remember the name” despite being consistent with his UFC performance, he never got the chance to put the UFC title belt on his waist.
His last victory against one of the best welterweights in the division, Gilbert Burns, showed the world how smart he is and how he can secure the easiest victory. Whilst constant kicks from the hands of Burns are considered an ultimatum to many upcoming title challengers, Muhammad was busy getting his name sealed for the next title fight.
Leon Edwards’ stance was dismissed by Muhammad
Last weekend, Leon Edwards secured a dominating win against Colby Covington at UFC 296 in his second title defense. Covington’s name was no way near for the title bout, as he hadn’t fought for more than a year and just competed against Jorge Masvidal, who wasn’t a ranked fighter.
But Belal Muhammad, after his victory against Burns, got his name sealed for the next opponent of Leon Edwards, but Dana White chose to give Colby probably the final chance for the welterweight title shot.
Leon’s opinion doesn’t matter.. his coach doesn’t matter ..the only person I care about is Dana and he gave me his word.. that’s all that matters … we’re next and the fact that they’re showing fear only gives me more confidence ..you should be afraid
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) December 20, 2023
Leon, during the UFC 296 post-fight press conference, gave his opinion on whether Belal Muhammad should be getting the title shot or not. Edwards clearly said no to Belal, but recently Leon’s rival posted a tweet where he showed his faith in Dana White and didn’t show concern about what the champion thought.
“Leon’s opinion doesn’t matter. His coach doesn’t matter. The only person I care about is Dana, and he gave me his word. That’s all that matters… We’re next, and the fact that they’re showing fear only gives me more confidence. You should be afraid.”
So this is how Leon Learns his ducking technique 🦆🦆🦆 https://t.co/RqVOe54YqN
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) December 20, 2023
Even later, the UFC Welterweight Champion’s coach came in support of his student and chose Gilbert Burns over Belal to be his next opponent to Edwards.
Belal Muhammad declares no plans to call out Conor McGregor
Dana White has yet to make the announcement, but the next fight for Belal Muhammad is already in the works after his stellar display in his last fight against Gilbert where Belal almost got Burns’ main attacking right hand into a paralyzing situation. Recently, “Remember the name” was on UFC Unfiltered, facing questions related to his next potential bout.
The interviewer asked Muhammad about him facing UFC’s biggest starfighter, Conor McGregor. In reply, Belal showed a respectful gesture towards the former champion. The 35-year-old said, “No disrespect to him; he’s an amazing fighter.”
Belal Muhammad explained to Jim Norton and Matt Serra his actual thoughts related to the former lightweight champion being his next opponent. “Let me and Leon fight; I’ll give him [Rakhmonov] the next shot. I’m not going to be that champion who sits out and calls for Conor McGregor or somebody like that. I want to fight the best guys in the world.”
Muhammad was also found acknowledging the victory of Shavkat Rakhmonov against Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. Rakhmonov secured the victory via submission in the 2nd round’s last 5 seconds. Impressed by Shavkat’s win, Muhammad is keeping his name as his next opponent in mind.
Who, according to you, should be the next opponent for UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards? Who can be more challenging than Colby Covington for the Edwards? And what are your views on Belal Muhammad being the next choice for the UFC welterweight champion?
Do comment with your take on which fighter can challenge the cemented UFC welterweight champion.
