Belal Muhammad is once again preparing for a challenging fight as he aims to climb back up the welterweight ranks.
After an impressive 10-fight unbeaten streak, the former UFC Welterweight Champion finally earned his long-awaited title shot against Leon Edwards last year.
However, Muhammad`s championship reign proved to be short-lived. He was dethroned by Jack Della Maddalena in his first title defense during the UFC 315 main event in May.
Despite his disagreement with the decision, the 37-year-old Muhammad, currently ranked as the #1 contender, must now fight his way back into contention for the 170 lbs title.
For his anticipated return, ‘Remember The Name’ is set to face a familiar opponent within the welterweight division.
Belal Muhammad vs. Ian Machado Garry to Co-Headline UFC Qatar
UFC CEO Dana White recently announced an exciting event in Doha, Qatar, featuring a double-header of top contender matchups.
The lightweight main event will see the #1 contender Arman Tsarukyan battle Dan Hooker.
In the co-main event at UFC Qatar on November 22nd, Belal Muhammad is scheduled to fight the #7-ranked welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry.
This highly anticipated card will take place at the ABHA Arena.
Machado Garry, who holds a professional record of 16-1, recently bounced back from his first career loss against Shavkat Rakhmonov by securing a five-round main event victory over Carlos Prates in April.
Muhammad, for his part, boasts an impressive record of 12-2 (1 NC) in his last 15 UFC appearances, underscoring his consistent performance at the elite level.
Sean Brady Expressed Interest in Fighting Both Muhammad and Machado Garry
One can only speculate about Sean Brady`s reaction to the announcement of Muhammad vs. Machado Garry.
Following his submission victory over Leon Edwards at UFC London, the #2-ranked welterweight contender Sean Brady had repeatedly expressed his strong desire to face either Muhammad or Machado Garry.
Consequently, Brady is now left without a scheduled opponent.
The American fighter had aimed to compete at UFC 322 on November 15th against Muhammad, Machado Garry, or even Shavkat Rakhmonov, hoping to position himself for a fight with the main event winner between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev.
With a professional record of 18-1, Sean Brady`s only career defeat was at the hands of Belal Muhammad, adding another layer of intrigue to the welterweight landscape.
Neville Whittle