Shavkat Rakhmonov stands as a terrifying force of nature in the welterweight division. The Kazakhstani fighter has carved his path through the division like a hot knife through butter. Every opponent who’s stepped into the octagon with him has either tapped out or been knocked out. 18 fights, 18 finishes. But now, he is ready to face the elite competition.
The recent news of Belal Muhammad’s withdrawal from UFC 310 due to a bone infection threw a wrench in Rakhmonov’s plans. But instead of sitting back and waiting, he is willing to save the card. And he’s calling out none other than the former pound-for-pound king, Kamaru Usman.
“I believe there is a worthy opponent available. I’m ready to save the card, too if it’s for the interim title. I believe [Kamaru] Usman is the worthy opponent who’s also probably ready to jump in and face him,” said Rakhmonov via The Ariel Helwani Show.
Looking at the situation, this callout makes perfect sense. Usman, despite his recent setbacks, remains one of the most respected names in the division. The Nigerian Nightmare hasn’t competed at welterweight since dropping two straight to Leon Edwards. His last outing was a short-notice loss to Khamzat Chimaev at middleweight.
The timing couldn’t be more intriguing. UFC 310 needs a main event that packs a punch, and this potential matchup has all the ingredients of a classic. On one side is Shavkat Rakhmonov, the undefeated finisher who makes seasoned veterans look like newcomers. On the other, there’s Kamaru Usman, the former champion looking to reclaim his glory.
Belal Muhammad Is Not A Fan Of Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Idea Of Interim Title
‘Remember The Name’ finally grabbed his slice of glory by claiming the welterweight crown in a stunning performance against Leon Edwards. Now, barely settling into his reign, Muhammad found himself dealing with a bone infection that’s temporarily sidelined his first title defense. And his opponent, Rakhmonov, wants a title, whether Belal’s or a new one.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
Shavkat Rakhmonov didn’t just ask for a replacement fight. He went full steam ahead, calling for an interim title bout. But Belal Muhammad’s response wasn’t him jumping for joy at the suggestion of another title in the division.
“I could see them trying to do something with Shavkat, but he’s calling for an interim title fight, and I’m like, interim title fight? Bro, it’s six weeks, not six months that I’m off,” said Muhammad via Anik & Florian Podcast.
Belal Muhammad’s stance is clear. He knows who the real champion is, and a six-week delay isn’t going to change that fact. His focus remains on recovery and returning to defend his hard-earned title properly. But Shavkat Rakhmonov is hungry, and he would not want to wait any longer than he is supposed to.
