The former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad is hungry for vengeance and is focused on climbing his way back to the top.
He was recently asked if a fight with Islam Makhachev is something he would entertain. Instead of giving a direct response, Belal emphasized how he’s focusing on his next fight, and after a win, he would discuss fighting for the belt. He's training every now and then, the matchmakers may soon announce a fight.
Islam Makhachev is expected to fight Jack Della Maddalena before the year ends and as far as Belal is concerned, he may have to face someone from the top 5 before securing the prestigious opportunity. An iconic clash would be between him and Leon Edwards – the ideal title eliminator.
There were also talks of seeing Belal move up to middleweight. It’s speculative for now, the 185 pound division is highly competitive but it will be interesting to see if it happens in the near future.
Belal Muhammad on Fighting Islam Makhachev
During a recent UFC media day, the former champion shed some light on fighting Islam Makhachev.
"It's my belt. For me, I gotta work my next opponent. After I get my next win, then I can talk about the belt."
Muhammad is asked if he'd be willing to fight for the welterweight title:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) August 15, 2025
"It's my belt. For me, I gotta work my next opponent. After I get my next win, then I can talk about the belt."
🎥 @ufc pic.twitter.com/NPTWyqHn9X
Mandatory Meme
Let’s take the time to add some humor:
just shared his last conversation with and i can’t stop laughing pic.twitter.com/RwVy0RsXvj
— ჯუდოჩად (@judobetter995) May 13, 2025