Belal Muhammad Aims for an Active Championship Reign

Embracing the Champion’s Schedule

Muhammad is setting a clear precedent for his championship tenure, emphasizing the importance of regular competition. He stated his preference for fighting over being inactive, expressing a strong hope to secure a spot on the UFC’s final event of the year in December. This timing would be ideal for him, allowing for another significant performance within months of his title win. He even speculates about potential openings, suggesting he could be the fighter to fill a spot on a card, perhaps even one that might have featured Conor McGregor, though he doubts McGregor’s return. Muhammad sees himself as the UFC’s readily available solution, their „Alex Pereira,“ prepared to fight on short notice if needed. He’s currently in training, helping his friend Ignacio Bahamondes prepare for his upcoming fight at The Sphere in September. This commitment highlights his unwavering motivation and readiness to compete, a stark contrast to what he views as Edwards taking an entire year off. Muhammad’s ambition is to restore the welterweight division’s prestige through sustained action.

Building an Undisputed Legacy

Beyond simply holding the championship, Muhammad, who has often entered fights as an underdog, is focused on forging an undeniable legacy. The 36-year-old fighter believes his well-rounded skill set makes him the most complete competitor in the UFC. He points to his fight history, demonstrating his ability to adapt his strategy to face diverse opponents, whether that means being the aggressor, defending takedowns, or controlling the pace. Muhammad prides himself on his adaptability, asserting that he can effectively exploit his opponents‘ weaknesses. He’s comfortable taking fights to uncomfortable territories for his rivals, showcasing his versatility and solid performance across all aspects of the fight game. This tactical flexibility is a cornerstone of his strategy, allowing him to thrive in any scenario.

A Vision for the Welterweight Division

Muhammad’s vision for his championship reign extends to revitalizing the welterweight division. He’s not content with a passive approach; instead, he aims to make the division exciting and dynamic through his active participation. By taking on challenges and remaining a constant presence, he wants to set a new standard for what it means to be a champion. His commitment to fighting multiple times a year demonstrates a dedication to the sport and its fans, ensuring that the welterweight title is consistently showcased. This proactive stance is crucial for maintaining momentum and interest in the division, a goal that Muhammad is clearly passionate about achieving. He wants to be remembered not just for winning the belt, but for his consistent effort and dedication to keeping the division at the forefront of the UFC’s landscape.