After Kamaru Usman made weight against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294, let’s take a look at what Belal Muhammad could do and who he could fight.
UFC welterweight is slowly becoming one of the promotion’s most interesting classes. And all of the fighters in the rankings have either fought recently or have fights booked. Except for Belal Muhammad. So what will his next fight be? Who will he face?
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As previously reported, Dana White admitted that Belal Muhammad had an altercation. That was on September 27th. And many expected Kamaru Usman to take the top spot. However, Usman will not fight Khamzat Chimaev. So what happens to Belal Muhammad?
What’s the status of Belal Muhammad’s fight after Kamaru Usman is scheduled to compete at UFC 294?
After Paulo Costa withdrew from UFC 294, Kamaru Usman moved up to middleweight to replace him. As a result, all rumors that he was in conflict with Muhammad were dispelled. Plus, all the other big names and top 10 welterweights are fighting.
If you look at the bottom of the rankings, fighters like Jacques Della Maddalena and Kevin Holland have fought recently. Furthermore, if Mohammed fights a lower-ranked fighter, his chances for a title shot will be in jeopardy.
Muhammad is about to fight for the title. He has built an impressive winning streak, defeating the likes of Gilbert Berndt and Vicente Luque. This was the main reason why fans suspected his next fight would be against former champion Usman for the number one contender spot.
Unfortunately for Muhammad, it appears he only has two options. Wait, then ask for a title shot? Or he could wait until Kamaru Usman recovers from the Chimaev fight and face him for the top spot early next year.
In any case, it is unlikely to see Belal Muhammad’s return before the end of the year. However, like against Burns, he could be substituted if there are further injuries on other cards.
What do you think about Belal Muhammad’s situation? Do you think he should wait for a title shot or should he wait and fight Kamaru Usman early next year?