For Belal Muhammad, his next challenger should have to earn a shot at the title.
Muhammad, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, believes a true No. 1 contender match between former titleholder Kamaru Usman and Shavkat Rakhmonov makes the most sense.
Related: Shavkat Rakhmonov Next Fight: 3 Opponent Options For ‘Nomad’ Including Kamaru Usman
On the heels of hearing that he was rumored – and turned down – a bout with Rakhmonov, Muhammad responded on social media.
“Inactive? Lol I’m still on trial and Shavkat hasn’t fought since 2023,” Muhammad posted. “I think Shavkat and Usman should fight to find the real number one contender.”
News came out of a reported bout in the works for UFC 307 in October. In it, Muhammad turned down the fight because the timing did not work for him.
Rakhmonov, a perfect 18-0 overall, has won all six of his Octagon appearances. The 29-year-old submitted Stephen Thompson in December, adding to his string of 18 finishes.
Usman, meanwhile, has not won a fight since 2021 when he defended the belt vs. Colby Covington. He lost the title to Leon Edwards in 2022, dropped a rematch in 2023 and fell out Khamzat Chimaev last October.
Belal Muhammad Playing Matchmaker For His Title
Muhammad stunned the world when he dominated Edwards in July at UFC 304, earning a decision in Manchester, England. The win was his sixth straight since a no-contest with Edwards in 2021.
During that run, Muhammad has topped the likes of Gilbert Burns, Thompson and Demian Maia. His last defeat came in 2019 vs. Geoff Neal via decision.
Who do you want to see Muhammad defend against?
