Belal Muhammad has turned down a potential fight against Islam Makhachev on multiple occasions. He gave a timeline as to when Makhachev would be able to fight for the Welterweight title as he plans to leave the division in future.
Belal was questioned about a potential fight against close friend Makhachev for the welterweight title. In response the Welterweight champion turned down the fight and hinted at a move to middleweight. He stated:
“I would never fight islam [MAKHACHEV]. He is my brother. After two or three wins then i have a chance to move up to middleweight.”
The Dagestani fighter and Belal share a strong relation with each other. As from years they both trained under the same person Khabib Nurmagomedov and his team. They both help each other in fights, training camps and are currently holding the championship of their respective division.
Belal calmly denied their potential match rumors as per him their bond is beyond the octagon cage. He mentioned that he will never fight Makhachev for the championship as for him brotherhood is over professional fighter.
Fans have often been critical about Belal as a fighter and this case too they mocked him.
Fans mock Belal Muhammad for avoiding a fight against Islam Makhachev
After Belal Muhammad denied views on his potential fight with Islam Makhachev which led to a lot of criticism for him. He denied the fight due to friendship and training relationship to which fans mocked him. They felt that he is fearful of losing his championship. Makhachev on the other hand wants to hold two titles at a time.
As per fans, a professional fighter should be ready to fight anyone irrespective of their relations. Also given many examples in which fighters chose professional careers over personal relations. It’s an excuse to continue his championship reign because he may loose this against Makhachev.
Instagram handle “MMA Uncensored“, recently posted his comments on their account. Reacting to the same MMA fans made fun of the welterweight champion.
“I have no hate for Belal, but honestly would rather see Islam go for his second belt than have Belal as champ. Islam is on a trajectory to become one of the GOATs of the sport, and sadly Belal is kinda just getting in his way.”
“Belal is so scared, he always say that wouldn’t fight Islam but Islam never say that wouldn’t fight Belal 🤣. Belal knows that if they fight, he lose.”
“It’s all clear! Tell me better, what to do if I have a lot 💸💰💵 ? Maybe someone needs it? It’s boring to be rich!)”
“Bros from Chicago talking about my brother. Islam is choosing legacy over that fake friendship.”
“belal is kind if a piece of shit for ruining islam’s plans, I doubt islam wants to defend lightweight for several more yeras just because belal joined his gym and took their training.”
“Weaseled his way to Makhachev camp, and now forcing this fake friendship upon him, I hope Makhachev move and smoke him.”
Who’s next to take on Belal Mohammad for the Welterweight title?
UFC did not announce any official fight for Belal Muhammad but the potential fight includes Rakhmonov and Kamaru Usman as an opponent for the championship.
Possibly, UFC could continue with the previously scheduled match between Muhammad and Rakhmonov at UFC 310 on December 7, 2024. Due to bone infection in the Welterweight champion’s foot he had to withdraw from the fight. As per reports, he has recovered from the infection and available to fight.
The other option which is former champion Kamaru Usman popularly known as “ The Nigerian Nightmare”. The option looks unlikely as Usman didn’t fight since October 2023. However last year the Nigerian showed his intentions to fight Muhammad for the Welterweight title.
We will have to wait for the UFC’s official statement regarding the welterweight championship match. But all signs suggest at Rakhmonov challenging for the title.
Anushka Sarkar 
REDDAVENI SAISNEHA