Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, has made a name for himself as one of the most skilled fighters in UFC’s 170-pound division, despite starting at a modest level and facing criticism back in early 2018. Belal Muhammad, the current titleholder, is eager to challenge Usman to cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats. Nonetheless, Muhammad is not shying away from facing the unbeaten contender Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Jon Anik, a close friend of Muhammad and a UFC commentator, has dismissed any suggestions that Muhammad is avoiding a matchup with Rakhmonov. Anik highlighted Rakhmonov’s impressive fighting record and his upward trajectory in the UFC, stating that Rakhmonov is a worthy contender for the title. However, Anik also acknowledged that the roadblock in this scenario is not Usman but another factor.
The question remains open as to whether Muhammad will take on Usman directly or possibly allow Usman to face Rakhmonov for the top spot. Muhammad claimed the title after a decision win over Leon Edwards last July, a victory that did not quite impress UFC CEO Dana White. How White’s viewpoint will influence the matchmaking for Muhammad’s first title defense is up in the air.
