The fan interest for a potential fight between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Belal Muhammad is running hot right now. ‘Remember The Name’ recently won the welterweight title at UFC 304 and is looking for his next opponent for his first title defense. The undefeated Kazakh attempted to capitalize on it with a recent move on X. Here is what happened:
Shavkat Rakhmonov recently called out Belal Muhammad on X. The undefeated Kazakh has challenged him for a title shot. Rakhmonov’s post came with a photoshopped poster from poster maker @maxsiz9 on Instagram.
Remember the name of your next opponent @bullyb170
Shavkat Rakhmonov on X
Muhammad has repeatedly stated top welterweights Shavkat Rakhmonov and Kamaru Usman as likely contenders for his first title defense. Former champion Usman has not remained that active since losing his title although he is still the #1 contender in the division. Meanwhile, the Palestinian recently stated on the ‘Remember The Show’ podcast that he was ready to take away Rakhmonov’s undefeated status.
Shavkat Rakhmonov has not stepped into the octagon yet in 2024. Plus this matchup with Muhammad is highly anticipated given Rakhmonov’s rising status in the division. Muhammad even responded to Rakhmonov’s callout with a GIF indicating that he was ready to take on the Kazakh. The last time he fought was in 2023 and is currently on a six-fight winning streak since debuting in the promotion. It will be interesting to see who walks away with a potential title fight against the new UFC welterweight champion.
Belal Muhammad issues challenge to Kamaru Usman
Belal Muhammad recently responded to Kamaru Usman’s comments that he is a “not-so-good version” of Usman. The Palestinian has challenged the former welterweight champion to a jumping squats competition. Muhammad’s retort came after Usman’s criticism on his podcast, where Usman claimed to be better in every aspect of fighting.
Belal fired back on social media, suggesting that they settle the dispute by seeing who can do more jumping squats. He also jokingly claimed that he handled Leon Edwards’ head kick better than Usman did in their respective fights.
Better version of me? Put your money where your mouth is. let’s see who can do more jumping squats … also I took that headkick better than you 💀🔫 https://t.co/OyofdlC5a0
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) August 15, 2024
Both fighters have been taking shots at each other for a while now. Especially after Muhammad’s recent win at UFC 304. ‘Remember The Name’ was able to overcome ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’s biggest challenge in the division. With all the recent build-up on social media and his star power as former champion, will Kamaru Usman steal away Shavkat Rakhmonov’s chances of a title shot with Belal Muhammad? Only time will tell.
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