During his Welterweight title defense against Colby Covington, Leon Edwards maintained composure for the most part. He disregarded his opponent’s terrible pre-fight taunts and went on to win by unanimous decision at UFC 296.
Even UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev advocates for Bilal Ahmed to receive a title shot against Leon Edwards following. Makhachev’s endorsement adds weight to Belal’s contention, emphasizing the significance of his performance and deserving candidacy for the welterweight title bout.
Does Belal Muhammad deserve title shot vs Leon Edwards?
In response to Daniel Cormier, the former UFC two-division champion, who stated that Belal Muhammad should face Leon Edwards, the current UFC welterweight champion, for the next title shot. MMA fighter-turned-analyst Daniel Cormier made predictions regarding Leon Edwards’ upcoming match on ESPN MMA’s DC & RC podcast.
Additionally, Cormier referred to Belal Muhammad’s nine victories in his last ten fights. He emphasized that, based on merit alone, Muhammad is the most deserving of the upcoming title match. Dana White was asked about Cormier’s remarks about Belal Muhammad. For his part, the president of the UFC stated that while Muhammad is probably going to face someone else.
Leon Edwards claims Belal Muhammad does not deserve title shot
Belal Muhammad is deserving of a shot at the title. With an amazing nine-fight winning streak under his belt, the Palestinian fighter has proven his skill and consistency in the division. Muhammad distinguished himself earlier this year by accepting and winning a bout against Gilbert Burns on short notice, displaying his tenacity and dedication.
Now I know why he doesn’t speak a lot ..he’s not very smart https://t.co/fOYp5CH4B6 pic.twitter.com/Dm2HlJyPVs
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) December 17, 2023
Muhammad is a worthy candidate for the upcoming title shot given his impressive record and the risks he has taken, especially up against a tough opponent like Edwards in the fiercely competitive welterweight division. The Englishman, who fought Muhammad to a no-contest draw in 2021, is not thrilled about the idea of facing him again, though.
After their first fight in 2021, he felt he had already shown he was a better fighter, but he still said he would fight the Palestinian if the UFC ordered it. “I will fight Belal if it is necessary.” Edwards told the media, “I feel like I’ve proven I’m way better than him anyway just from that one round.”
