While Belal Muhammad may not have always enjoyed widespread popularity, and despite having been the target of taunts from fellow UFC contenders since winning the welterweight championship, his recent performance against Jack Della Maddalena altered many of their views. Even though the welterweight title slipped from his grasps, Muhammad’s display during the fight was met with substantial recognition and applause.
Nevertheless, this didn’t prevent UFC welterweight Kevin Holland from launching a barb at Muhammad in the aftermath of his defeat. The dispute between Holland and Muhammad has only intensified with Muhammad’s fresh loss of the title. At the UFC 316 media day, when questioned about Muhammad’s loss to Della Maddalena at UFC 315, Holland made no efforts to hide his pleasure.
Referring to the incident as ‘remarkable’ to watch, Holland continued to dismiss Muhammad’s prowess, stating, ‘Observing Belal relinquish the belt was quite interesting. I’ve never held Belal in high esteem. He’s persistent, he puts his heart into training. But ultimately, training camps are about dedication and outdoing everyone else’s effort. As long as you’re the hardest worker in the camp, you can undoubtedly outdo him in the ring. Work ethic is essentially his only strength.’
In the meantime, Muhammad, the once welterweight champion, is gearing up for a vigorous UFC return. Hoping to claim victory and solicit a title shot immediately afterwards, Muhammad is eyeing his comeback during the same pay-per-view event that is set to feature a bout with JDM.
Despite having to relinquish his title at UFC 315, Muhammad has managed to sustain the admiration of the MMA community. Following an intense five-round contest with Jack Della Maddalena, Muhammad has been lauded both for his performance and his mentality.
UFC’s seasoned fighter, Chael Sonnen, commended him for promptly challenging Shavkat Rakhmonov post-defeat, the same fighter that was in his crosshairs during his title-holding period. In words of praise for Muhammad, Sonnen asserted that a callout to Rakhmonov in the wake of a loss demonstrates authentic fortitude.
Sonnen emphasized that even though Muhammad may not receive due acknowledgement, his merit in the sport is indisputable. He argued that such a stance post a disappointing loss exhibits the true mettle of a fighter and sets Muhammad apart.
Muhammad, true to his form, has displayed resilience and a strong work ethic throughout his professional journey, and it’s this determined spirit that won him respect in the MMA world, despite the recent setback.
Although his rivalry with Kevin Holland continues to brew, Muhammad’s focus only appears to be on his impending UFC return, a triumph in the ring, and his aspiration for a speedy title shot. It is this unwaveringly forward-facing attitude that makes Muhammad a notable figure in the sport, regardless of recent results.
His decision to directly confront Shavkat Rakhmonov post his recent defeat didn’t go unnoticed; a move that has been universally acclaimed for demonstrating true character in the face of adversity.
Indeed, the MMA world noticed not just his skill and determination during the match, but also his courage and tenacity in looking forward. Muhammad’s positive and unrelenting attitude, despite his recent loss, is anticipated to make his return match an event worth the watch.
At the end of the day, every fighter has something crucial at stake in any battle. For Muhammad, it is not just about regaining his lost title but about respect, perseverance, and the fortitude that makes champions what they are.
Even amidst Holland’s derisive comments, Muhammad’s narrative has remained largely positive. His ability to remain stalwart in the face of adversity and to look ahead to future opportunities has stirred respect and anticipation among UFC fans.
While his UFC return has not arrived yet, the because of his recent performances, it promises to be a surefire event surrounded by high expectations and speculations.