This past Saturday at UFC Vegas 21, Belal Muhammad (18-3, 1 NC) finally got the shot he’s been asking for. Muhammad has felt disrespected by many in that he’s never in the conversation regarding future welterweight champions.
He’s been wanting a shot against some of the UFC‘s elite guys to prove that he belongs in that conversation. Well, after Khamzat Chimaev fell out a couple of weeks ago, top three ranked contender, Leon Edwards (18-3, 1 NC) needed a new opponent.
Immediately, Muhammad threw his name in for the UFC Vegas 21 headlining spot. This was his chance to prove that he belongs with the elites of the division. On Saturday night, he wanted to show the world that he could be a future champion in the welterweight division.
The first round started out pretty rough for Muhammad. Normally, he’s the guy who is pushing the action, however, it was Leon Edwards that had him backing up. Edwards landed a headkick that wobbled Muhammad badly in the first round.
Muhammad survived, but it was a rough round as he was outstruck by Edwards pretty clearly. In the second round, Muhammad was going to look to build some of his own momentum, however, the fight came to an abrupt halt.
Leon Edwards went for a body kick, but to give himself space, he had his hand out straight. One of his fingers went deep into the eye of Muhammad for an accidental eye poke. It was a bad one and it caused the UFC Vegas 21 main event to end in a no contest.
What’s next after UFC Vegas 21?
It’s clear that after UFC Vegas 21 that Belal Muhammad wants another crack at Leon Edwards. Their fight ended with no one getting their hand raised and it feels like there is unfinished business between the two men.
However, I don’t believe the promotion will head in this direction. Muhammad got this spot by circumstance and unfortunately for him, I don’t see the UFC rebooking this fight now. So with that, what’s next for Belal Muhammad.
I firmly believe that Muhammad should get a top ten opponent after this unfortunate turn of events. I think we should look at UFC 260 to find Muhammad’s next opponent. On the main card, Tyron Woodley and Vicente Luque are scheduled to fight.
I believe that a great fight for Muhammad would be the winner. Either he will get a rematch with Luque or he will get a shot at a former UFC champion. Both of these would be a great next fight for Belal Muhammad.