Belal Muhammad recently expressed his views on the need for additional weight classes in the UFC, highlighting the serious challenges fighters face during weight cuts. During a Q&A posted on his YouTube channel, Muhammad argued that expanding the number of divisions could help extend fighters’ careers and offer more opportunities inside the octagon.
The veteran fighter, known in the UFC as “Remember The Name,” drew attention to the large group of athletes stuck between existing weight categories, particularly between 155 to 170 pounds and 170 to 185 pounds. He explained that these “in-betweeners” often struggle with weight management and risk severe health issues while attempting to make their designated class.
Challenges of Weight Cuts and the Need for More Divisions
Muhammad detailed how dangerous cutting weight can be for many fighters, with some pushing their bodies to extremes. He believes that introducing new weight classes would reduce such risks and increase the number of title fights, benefiting athletes and fans alike. However, he also acknowledged that some fighters might still attempt drastic weight changes despite additional divisions.
“Do I think UFC needs more weight classes? I do. I think that there’s a lot of guys that are just stuck in that middle zone from 155 to 170, 170 to 185. There’s a lot of in-betweeners. I think it’ll give more guys more opportunities to fight longer, to fight multiple times a year.”
—Belal Muhammad, UFC Fighter
“The weight cut k*lls a lot of people. I know a lot of guys that k*ll themselves. But even if you add weight classes, I think higher guys going to try to go lower. It’s still going to be bunch of mess, but you’re going to get a lot more title fights, so why not add more weight classes?”
—Belal Muhammad, UFC Fighter
Belal Muhammad’s Career Status and Future Outlook
Belal Muhammad held the UFC welterweight championship for nearly ten months before losing to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315, which ended his impressive 11-fight undefeated streak within the promotion. Despite this setback, Muhammad remains focused on regaining his elite standing in the division rather than considering retirement at this stage.
Discussing his career plans in the same video, Muhammad emphasized how important it is to listen to his body and emotions before deciding to step away from the sport. He stated his current mindset is driven by passion for fighting and training, with no immediate plans to quit.
“For me, it’s about listening to the body. I still feel great. I still love the sport. I still love training… Until I’ve fallen out of love with it, until I hate it, until my body’s telling me [to] stop it. That’s when I start thinking about it. But right now, I still think I’m the best in the world. I’m still working to get back on top.”
—Belal Muhammad, UFC Fighter
Belal Muhammad’s advocacy for additional weight classes spotlights an ongoing issue in the UFC involving dangerous weight cuts that threaten fighters’ health and longevity. Should the organization consider his proposal, it could reshape the competitive landscape by providing safer conditions and more championship opportunities for athletes stuck in transitional weight ranges. Muhammad’s own journey underscores both the physical toll of the sport and the dedication needed to remain at the highest level.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Belal Muhammad Islamic?
A. Personal Life: Muhammad practices Islam and actively supports Palestine.
Q. Does Belal Muhammad do Ramadan?
A. Belal Muhammad, the UFC welterweight champion, has experience training during Ramadan. Muhammad (24-3 MMA, 15-3 UFC) prepared for a fight with Gilbert Burns at UFC 288 in May 2023 during this time. He won the fight after five rounds by unanimous decision, making him the top contender.