Strategic Showdown: Will Rakhmonov’s Finishes Overcome Muhammad’s Endurance?

The welterweight division is buzzing with anticipation, and the potential clash between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Belal Muhammad is at the forefront of discussions. As Muhammad prepares for his first title defense, the question on many minds is how the undefeated Rakhmonov, known for his decisive finishes, will fare against the relentless pressure and championship grit of the reigning king. Renowned coach Louis Taylor offers his insightful perspective on this captivating matchup, highlighting the crucial factors that could determine the outcome.

The Unstoppable Force Meets the Immovable Object

Louis Taylor believes that for Shavkat Rakhmonov to defeat the newly crowned welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, he will likely need to find a definitive finish. Rakhmonov boasts a perfect 18-0 professional record, with every single one of his victories coming by way of stoppage, a testament to his lethal striking and submission skills. However, Muhammad’s corner, and indeed many observers, are acutely aware of his exceptional gas tank and unwavering pace. Taylor suggests that if Rakhmonov cannot stop Muhammad early, the champion’s relentless style could become a significant problem. „The fuel tank is going to be a factor,“ Taylor stated, implying that a decision victory for Muhammad is a strong possibility if the fight goes the distance.

Contenders Emerge for the Championship Belt

Beyond the immediate prospect of Rakhmonov challenging Muhammad, other formidable contenders are also vying for a shot at welterweight gold. Former champion Kamaru Usman, who has a history of intense rivalries with Muhammad, is also in the mix. Taylor acknowledges the merits of both Usman and Rakhmonov, recognizing their distinct paths to a title shot. He points out that while Usman might possess the statistical track record and championship pedigree, Rakhmonov’s quest to maintain his undefeated streak and potentially take away Muhammad’s zero holds a unique appeal in terms of narrative and legacy. The decision of who earns the next title shot will undoubtedly be a complex one, balancing recent performances with established dominance and the allure of compelling matchups.

Timing and Championship Readiness

The timeline for Muhammad’s first title defense is also a subject of keen interest. Rakhmonov himself has indicated that Muhammad declined a fight in October, a timeframe that Muhammad’s camp has seemingly ruled out. Having just secured the title at UFC 304, where he largely dominated Leon Edwards, Muhammad is expected to take some time before stepping back into the Octagon. Taylor emphasizes the importance of a well-timed return, referencing Muhammad’s longest career layoff between his fight with Gilbert Burns and his title-winning performance against Edwards. He suggests that a fight in November or December would be a more appropriate timeframe for Muhammad’s inaugural title defense, allowing him sufficient recovery and preparation time before facing another elite challenger.