The tension between UFC welterweight contenders Kamaru Usman and Belal Muhammad is escalating.
Despite not competing since his recent defeat to Khamzat Chimaev, Kamaru Usman remains a frequent topic of discussion for current welterweight titleholder Belal Muhammad.
After experiencing three losses in a row, a stark contrast to his former status as a dominant welterweight champion and top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, the future of Usman`s fighting career is uncertain. These losses include two against Leon Edwards and a recent short-notice fight against Chimaev.
Usman`s extended absence has spurred several welterweight fighters, including Ian Machado Garry, Jack Della Maddalena, and Joaquin Buckley, to challenge him, hoping to draw him back into the Octagon.
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Belal Muhammad Draws Parallels Between Kamaru Usman and Conor McGregor`s UFC Inactivity
Usman appears to be carefully planning his UFC return. While a comeback before the year concludes is possible, it`s not guaranteed.
During Usman`s time away, new contenders have emerged in the welterweight division, including the current champion. The speculation around Usman’s future in fighting has intensified, leading some to question his commitment to returning.
In a recent interview, Belal Muhammad, the UFC welterweight champion, shared a critical view of Usman`s current situation.
“He’s been inactive for over two years. Now, he’s a podcaster. He just enjoys talking,” Muhammad commented on Usman. “I think he`s somewhat like McGregor, missing the spotlight. He wants to stay relevant, so whenever a significant name or fight is on the horizon, he makes comments or posts gym photos with Israel Adesanya to spark interest and speculation about a potential comeback.”
“Ultimately, there are many more determined fighters – guys who are truly hungry for it – and fighters currently active who have earned their opportunities.”
This isn`t the first instance of Muhammad publicly criticizing Usman. Previously, after Usman urged Muhammad to accept a fight with one of his teammates, Muhammad responded by challenging Usman to “end his losing streak.”
Usman likened Muhammad`s pre-fight comments to those of Colby Covington, his former opponent, who made personal attacks leading up to their matches. However, Muhammad`s approach has been less personal in the lead-up to his first title defense.
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UFC 315 Could Set Stage for Belal Muhammad Teammate Matchup
Should Muhammad succeed against Maddalena at UFC 315 next month, a high-profile fight, possibly against another champion, could be next. Rumors suggest UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev may move up to welterweight, potentially setting up a match with Muhammad.
However, a significant hurdle to a Muhammad-Makhachev fight is Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has coached both fighters. Nurmagomedov has expressed reservations about seeing his two proteges compete against each other.
If Makhachev does move to welterweight, Muhammad might consider moving up to middleweight. He has recently engaged in verbal exchanges with middleweight contenders like Dricus du Plessis and Sean Strickland.
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Rupert Hartwell