Tensions are rising in the UFC welterweight division and Belal Muhammad isn’t holding back. Ahead of his upcoming main event at UFC Fight Night 278, Muhammad took aim at former champion Kamaru Usman, accusing him of avoiding a potential showdown.
Muhammad (24-5, 15-5 UFC) returns June 6 against rising contender Gabriel Bonfim at the UFC Apex. But according to Muhammad, that wasn’t the matchup he originally wanted. “They said it was either Bonfim or Kamaru… I already knew it was going to be Bonfim,” Muhammad said. “There’s no need to even say Kamaru because I know he’s not going to fight.”
Instead of a high-profile clash with a former champion, Muhammad now faces a dangerous but less established opponent as he looks to rebound.
Coming Off Back-to-Back Losses
Belal Muhammad enters the fight in unfamiliar territory. Lost the welterweight title to Jack Della Maddalena. Followed with another defeat to Ian Machado Garry After that skid, Muhammad acknowledged he no longer has the luxury of picking opponents. “When you lost your last fight, nothing else matters… it’s about getting a win.”
Despite his current position, Muhammad didn’t hesitate to take verbal shots at Usman.He suggested the former champion who shares management with him is being protected and is avoiding risky matchups late in his career.
Usman (21-4) has struggled recently, winning just once in his last four fights after losing his title in 2022. Muhammad believes time is running out for “The Nigerian Nightmare.”
A New Path for Usman?
Interestingly, Muhammad also floated a different route for Usman one that doesn’t involve welterweight. He pointed toward a potential move up to middleweight and a fight with Dricus Du Plessis. With current welterweight champion Khamzat Chimaev potentially moving up in the future, divisions could soon shift opening doors for veterans like Usman.
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