Islam makhachev defended the belt in UFC 311. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Belal Muhammad | doesn't want to share the octagon with Islam makhachev. With the recurring rumors that the lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg) would be willing to move up a category and seeking the second belt, the welterweight champion (up to 77kg), which would become a target, showed that there is no ego when the subject involves a strong friendship.
During an interview with Barstool Chicago, Muhammad ruled out any possibility of defending his title against Makhachev. The fighter highlighted the strong friendship he has with the Russian, due to their training together. Instead, he is considering moving up to the middleweight category (up to 83,9 kg) to seek his second belt and leave the way clear for his friend.
“I would never fight Islam because our relationship is different. We train together. When you sweat with someone, bleed with someone and train with someone like that, it’s a different kind of relationship. It wouldn’t be about money for me, or for him, I imagine. So I would never want to do that. They’ve helped me a lot. I would rather move up to 84 pounds and just let him have 77 pounds, if that’s what it takes. Having already had to fight my way up to the top of 77 pounds and having beaten five guys in the top 10, I’m two fights away from being able to fight at 84 pounds and say, ‘Yes, I want to be a double champion,’” Belal said.
Belal downplays challenges in the middle and provokes rivals
Belal Muhammad | became welterweight champion in July. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @bullyb170
Belal stated that his move to the higher division would not be that complicated, as he is already used to training with heavier fighters. Furthermore, in the Palestinian's opinion, the middleweight category (84kg) is relatively easy, with the exception of Khamzat Shimaev.
“I train with bigger guys, so I’ve felt their strength. I think 84 pounds is probably the easiest weight class, other than Khamzat. Sean] Strickland and Dricus du Plessis are bad.”, concluded the welterweight champion.
With a streak of 10 wins and one fight without a result, Belal Muhammad | became UFC welterweight champion by defeating Leon edwards by unanimous decision. Now Islam makhachev He is on an impressive run of 15 triumphs, five of which have been in title fights.
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