The welterweight champion, Belal Muhammad, emanates a newfound confidence following his firsthand experience at UFC 310. Attending the event at T-Mobile Arena, Muhammad witnessed the intense five-round battle between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry, which ended with Rakhmonov securing a unanimous decision victory. Despite their formidable skills, Muhammad left the arena with a renewed belief in his own capabilities to overcome either fighter, solidifying his status as a dominant force in the welterweight division.
Muhammad’s analysis of the match highlighted not only his astute understanding of fight dynamics but also his unwavering self-assuredness. Watching Rakhmonov, who maintained an undefeated record prior to this bout, struggle to finish Garry for the first time made Muhammad even more optimistic about a potential showdown. In interviews following the event, Muhammad emphasized his conviction, stating that regardless of the opponent, he remains confident about his chances in the octagon.
With a professional record of 24 wins and 3 losses, Muhammad is no stranger to adversity or competition. His impressive victory over Leon Edwards at UFC 304—an event where he showcased a remarkable blend of striking and grappling—has added another layer to his confidence. In reflecting on his abilities, he boldly claimed superiority in striking against Rakhmonov. Unlike many fighters classified merely as grapplers, Muhammad considers himself a well-rounded athlete capable of dominating in multiple areas of fighting.
In a division where striking proficiency is often the hallmark of success, Muhammad’s assertion that he managed to out-strike Edwards—someone regarded as one of the best strikers—positions him not only as a credible threat but also as a strategist. He points to the quantitative aspect of the fight, where he landed over 100 strikes more than his opponent. This performance underlines his multifaceted skill set, proving that he is not only capable on the mat but also dangerous standing.
What sets Muhammad’s fighting style apart is his tactical mentality. He attributes his success to an ability to stay unpredictable, claiming that opponents often struggle to read his movements until it is too late. This strategic approach fuels his confidence as he prepares for potential matchups with Rakhmonov. He recognizes the importance of exerting pressure during clinches—a moment that often defines the flow of a fight.
Notably, he expressed surprise at the apparent complacency exhibited during the clinch exchanges between Rakhmonov and Garry. Muhammad reiterated his intent to maintain relentless forward motion during any potential engagement, highlighting a crucial difference in his fighting philosophy. He projects an image of a relentless fighter, ready to maintain pressure and minimize his opponent’s opportunities to rest or recover. His assertion that he will not allow his opponents to enjoy moments of respite speaks to his aggressive style and mental fortitude.
The psychological aspect of championship fighting cannot be understated, and Muhammad seems to have an intuitive grasp of this facet. His belief in his own supremacy within the division is not merely braggadocio; it reflects a deep-seated understanding of the mental games that accompany high-level competition. By focusing on his strengths while analyzing his opponents’ weaknesses, he cultivates a mindset that is both combative and strategic.
As he prepares for what lies ahead, whether against Rakhmonov or any challenger who may come his way, Muhammad embodies the resilience and ambition of a true champion. His experience and analytical mindset serve as formidable assets in his quest to defend his title. Belal Muhammad stands poised to advance the welterweight division, driven not only by his achievements but by a belief in his destiny to dominate.