As anticipation builds among MMA fans, UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad has voiced his strong desire to face the undefeated Chechen star Khamzat Chimaev, confidently stating that he knows exactly how to hand “Borz” his first career loss.
Though Chimaev has moved up to Middleweight—recently climbing to the #3 spot after his dominant first-round win over Robert Whittaker—Belal Muhammad is still determined to make that long-awaited fight happen.
In a recent interview with Submission Radio, he said:
“I reached out to Khamzat back when he was at 170 lbs. It’s one of those fights I’ve always wanted. I’m always chasing the toughest challenge.”
A Clash of Styles
Known for his high fight IQ and relentless pressure, Belal believes that stylistically, he holds a significant advantage over Chimaev, who boasts a flawless record of 14 wins, including 8 in the UFC.
“Khamzat is extremely dangerous in the first round, comes out like a rocket. But for me, the real fight starts in the later rounds. If I can take him there, I can beat him,” Belal stated.
What’s Next?
Originally scheduled to face UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis, Chimaev’s plans were disrupted when the South African withdrew due to injury. As a result, a potential interim title fight against the #6-ranked Brazilian Caio Borralho is now being considered.
Meanwhile, Belal Muhammad is preparing to defend his welterweight title against rising contender Jack Della Maddalena on May 10 at UFC 315 in Montreal, Canada.
Will Belal vs. Khamzat Happen?
Only time will tell whether this dream matchup becomes a reality. But one thing is certain: Belal Muhammad is ready—and he believes he’s the man to break the Chimaev streak.
