Belal Muhammad Eyes Khamzat Chimaev in Bold Move Up to Middleweight

ABU DHABI, UAE — Welterweight champion Belal Muhammad is aiming for a high-stakes challenge as he calls out Khamzat Chimaev to fight him at 185 pounds. This request comes after years of Muhammad climbing the welterweight rankings, earning a reputation for his relentless fighting style and excellent cardio.

Many fighters have shifted weight classes in the UFC, seeking bigger opportunities or glory. Muhammad, known as ‘Remember The Name,’ is no stranger to being overlooked, often seen as less flashy compared to his peers despite his achievements.

In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Muhammad detailed his strategy for facing Chimaev. “I’ve called out Khamzat when he was at 170. I’m always looking for the toughest challenge,” he said. He believes that the matchup favors him, particularly given Chimaev’s tendency to expend energy quickly in the early rounds.

Muhammad pointed out that Chimaev often appears to tire after a strong first round, as shown in his recent bouts against Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman. “It’s about taking him to the later rounds and starting to drown him,” he added.

As the middleweight division encounters a ripple of uncertainty, potential fights are up in the air. Dricus Du Plessis, the reigning champion, currently faces injury setbacks, and is out of commission. Chimaev also finds himself without a challenger, opening a window for possible matchups.

Before any fight with Chimaev can occur, Muhammad is set to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315, leading to questions about when this anticipated clash could likely happen.

“The opportunity is there, but focus now is on my title defense,” Muhammad concluded, signaling determination as he prepares for his next bout.