Belal Muhammad aims to face the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington for the UFC welterweight title.
His UFC 288 victory over Gilbert Burns marked his ninth straight win, but a title shot eluded him.
The UFC chose Edwards vs. Covington for UFC 296 on December 16, leaving Muhammad in limbo.
Expressing frustration in an interview on TNT Sports, he emphasized having no other viable opponents and his five top-ten wins.
Reflecting on a no-contest with Edwards in March 2021 due to an eye poke, Muhammad desires a rematch, especially with Edwards now holding the title.
Belal Muhammad Chooses Edwards, Commits to UFC 296 Backup Role
When asked about his preference between Edwards and Covington, Muhammad unequivocally stated, ““I want Leon [Edwards]…I go out there, I beat him, he has the longest winning streak, I have the second longest winning streak. So, that’s the one I want. Especially with unfinished business that we have…I want that one back.”
Regarding his role as a backup for UFC 296, Muhammad stressed readiness, declaring, “I’m going to weigh in,” acknowledging the sport’s unpredictable nature.
Quotes from Middle Easy
Colby Covington’s controversial title shot as a backup in March fueled debates, with critics questioning his deservingness based on his last win in January 2022.
Nevertheless, Covington has the chance to end Edwards’ eleven-fight win streak in their December showdown at the T-Mobile Arena. The decision, despite criticism, sets the stage for a high-stakes clash.
Belal Muhammad’s journey in the UFC unfolds with potential rematches, title pursuits, and the ever-shifting landscape, sparking debates on deserving contenders and the intricate dynamics of title contention in mixed martial arts.
As Belal Muhammad’s UFC journey navigates potential rematches and title pursuits, the looming clash between Edwards and Covington intensifies. The debates on deserving contenders and the intricate dynamics of title contention persist. What are your thoughts on the unfolding story? Who do you believe deserves the next shot at the welterweight title? Share your opinions below.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
