Islam Makhachev is the current pound-for-pound number-one fighter in the world. The lightweight champion has always talked about potentially moving up and getting the second UFC belt. However, Belal Muhammad‘s reign as welterweight champion has stalled Makhachev’s plans, making double-champion status unlikely anytime soon.
Recently, Khabib Nurmagomedov talked about the potential fight between Makhachev and Belal Muhammad. According to the ‘Eagle,’ he personally won’t like it if the fight does take place. In an interview, Muhammad’s coach also said something similar and expressed the mutual relationship between the two teams.
Those are like our brothers. You don’t wanna see two brothers fighting….it’s not something that at a personal level or a camp level any of us wants to see. We train with those guys a lot. So, we don’t want to sully our relationship.
Louis Taylor via Parry Punch
Muhammad has been closely associated with Team Khabib for years, building a strong bond with them. Before his last title fight against Leon Edwards, Muhammad spent significant time training with Khabib Nurmagomedov. Working with the legendary ‘Eagle,’ he has gained valuable knowledge and skills that have elevated his game.
Muhammad is fully aware of Makhachev’s ambition to move up and claim a second championship belt. In the past, he even suggested that Makhachev consider jumping to middleweight to challenge the division’s champion. While the idea seems daunting, Makhachev’s coach has already hinted that this move could become a reality.
Belal Muhammad shares his experience about training with Islam Makhachev
After Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement from UFC, Islam Makhachev successfully continued the Dagestani domination. He became the lightweight champion and has already defended the title thrice against top challengers. Many experts regard him as a better version of Nurmagomedov given his ability to knock out opponents.
Belal Muhammad and Islam Makhachev (via Instagram)Makhachev has cemented his dominance in the UFC with unmatched grappling, precise striking, and exceptional fight IQ. Belal Muhammad has spent a lot of time training with Makhachev and understands the threat he possesses. In a podcast with Joe Rogan, the welterweight champion talked about Dagestani’s strength.
He’s so big. He’s so strong and he’s so good….I would at least say, 185 lbs(walks around at)….but his strength feels like 250 lbs.
Belal Muhammad via JRE MMA Show #162
Beyond his status as an elite fighter, Makhachev is highly marketable, boasting millions of followers worldwide. He has headlined multiple blockbuster pay-per-view events, with his upcoming bout generating significant excitement among fans. Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, where he’s the favorite.
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