The UFC welterweight title picture is heating up and Belal Muhammad has a strong opinion on how it should play out. With champion Islam Makhachev yet to book his first title defense, multiple contenders are jockeying for position. But according to Muhammad, the fighter who deserves the shot and the one who will actually get it are two different names.
Muhammad believes undefeated rising star Michael Morales has done enough to earn the opportunity. Morales (19-0) made a major statement with a first-round knockout of Sean Brady at UFC 322 the same night Makhachev captured the welterweight title.
“I think Morales probably deserves it the most,” Muhammad said. “Being undefeated and finishing Brady the way he did… that was the perfect performance at the perfect time.”
Usman Dismissed, Questions About Garry
Muhammad didn’t hold back when discussing other contenders.
- Kamaru Usman dismissed entirely from the title conversation
- Ian Machado Garry criticized for durability and cardio
“I don’t even think Kamaru should be in the talks,” Muhammad said.
“For Ian… I don’t think he’s tough enough to go five rounds.”
Despite Garry’s recent win over Muhammad and growing momentum, those concerns remain in his mind.
Promotion vs Performance
While Muhammad favors Morales based on merit, he understands how the UFC operates. Performance alone doesn’t always dictate title shots marketability matters. That’s where Garry may have the edge. Muhammad ultimately expects Garry to leapfrog the competition. “Probably Ian… He’s got Ireland behind him, he’s a talker, he’s promoting himself.”
Garry’s ability to build hype and connect with fans could outweigh Morales’ resume at least in the UFC’s eyes. Still, Muhammad sees a dangerous matchup if it happens: “If Islam gets the takedown, it’s going to be a bad night for him.”
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
