Kamaru Usman Explodes I’ll Move Up and Beat Belal Muhammad, Take His Belt

In a surprising turn of events, UFC legend Kamaru Usman is pushing for a massive clash between Islam Makhachev and Belal Muhammad. Usman, who has faced his fair share of challenges in the octagon, insists that Makhachev should pursue a fight with the welterweight champion, despite their past training history. Usman’s comments have sent shockwaves through the MMA world, especially considering Makhachev’s stance on the matter.

Usman Calls for Makhachev to Ignore Friendship Boundaries

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC), has made it clear that he is interested in moving up a weight class to chase a second UFC belt. However, a major hurdle stands in his way—Belal Muhammad, the current UFC welterweight champion. The two have trained together numerous times, but Makhachev has maintained that as long as Muhammad holds the belt, he will not challenge him.

Usman, however, strongly disagrees with Makhachev’s decision. Speaking on his “Pound 4 Pound” podcast with Henry Cejudo, Usman shared his thoughts on the situation. He stated, “If I were him, the decision that I would make next, yeah, 100 percent, I would definitely probably go up. This whole notion of Belal training with them, bro, no.” Usman’s words show no hesitation—he would go up against Muhammad regardless of their shared training history, emphasizing that he’s not afraid of taking on anyone in the UFC, even friends.

Usman Unleashes a Bold Challenge: “I’m Whipping Him”

With the intensity of his response, Usman doesn’t mince words. “I’m going up there, and I’m whipping him. I don’t care. Just because he comes into our camp, just tries to use our bodies and learn our style? I’m moving up, I’m whipping him, I’m taking that belt, and hey, I’m moving on to the next.” This comment marks Usman’s strong challenge to Muhammad, signaling that he believes friendship should not stand in the way of championship dreams.

Usman’s comments aren’t entirely out of left field. He has been outspoken about his rivalry with Muhammad, and many suspect his recent call-out may stem from personal tension between the two fighters. Usman has yet to compete since his loss to Khamzat Chimaev in October 2023, where he suffered his third consecutive defeat.

Makhachev’s Reluctance and the Potential for a Super Fight

While Usman is adamant about the fight, Makhachev has made it clear that he is not yet ready to challenge Muhammad. Makhachev, fresh off a record-breaking fourth lightweight title defense against Renato Moicano at UFC 311, has stated that he will not consider fighting Muhammad until the welterweight champion is no longer in possession of the belt. Despite this, Makhachev has expressed his determination to never retire without competing for a second UFC title, a sentiment that keeps fans eagerly anticipating his next move.

The Future of UFC’s Title Picture

As the rivalry between Usman and Muhammad intensifies, it’s clear that the path to a potential showdown is far from predictable. Will Makhachev listen to Usman’s bold challenge and take on Muhammad, or will the notion of friendship and respect in the UFC prevail? With both fighters determined to make history, one thing is certain: UFC fans are in for a ride.

The call-out by Kamaru Usman has undoubtedly stirred the pot, fueling speculation about the future of the welterweight and lightweight divisions. If Makhachev takes the leap, it could set the stage for one of the most anticipated bouts in UFC history. Stay tuned—this battle of egos is far from over.