Belal Muhammad has weighed in on the much-anticipated middleweight title clash between champion Dricus du Plessis and undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev, scheduled for UFC 319 on August 16. Muhammad shared his perspective on how the fight might unfold, focusing on the fighters’ styles and stamina, identifying Chimaev’s strengths as key factors in the outcome.
Du Plessis, who has successfully defended his middleweight belt twice against former champions, is recognized for his unique fighting approach and endurance. On the other hand, Chimaev is known for his relentless pressure from the start and strong grappling abilities. While many believe du Plessis’ cardio will give him an edge in the later rounds, Muhammad argues that Chimaev’s stamina should not be underestimated if the fight remains upright.
“Honestly, too many people are counting out Chimaev’s cardio. DDP has an awkward style, but he gets hit a lot and he breaks a lot of guys with fatigue. If Chimaev doesn’t come out super hard in the first round, trying to take him down and landing all his energy, I think he’ll be fine if he keeps it standing. I got Chimaev.” —Belal Muhammad
Rising UFC Middleweight Reinier de Ridder Eyes Du Plessis and Chimaev
In the backdrop of this title fight, middleweight contender Reinier de Ridder expressed his desire to face either Dricus du Plessis or Khamzat Chimaev next. After a grueling five-round split decision victory against former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi, de Ridder revealed his preference for a quicker, decisive win in his next match.
“I don’t want to fight like this, man! [Whittaker] was too tough. I want to finish a guy in the first round. It would be much better. So maybe Khamzat / Dricus next. Let’s go.” —Reinier de Ridder
Implications of Muhammad’s Prediction and Upcoming Battles
Belal Muhammad’s confidence in Khamzat Chimaev underscores the heavyweight potential Chimaev carries, particularly if he maintains his energy and pressure standing up during the fight. This insight challenges widespread assumptions about Chimaev’s endurance and could influence betting and fan expectations heading into UFC 319.
Meanwhile, Reinier de Ridder’s call for a bout against one of these fighters signals potential high-stakes matchups soon, which could reshape the middleweight division rankings. As the event approaches, anticipation grows for how these fighters will execute their game plans within one of the UFC’s most competitive weight classes.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Belal Muhammad Islamic?
A. Muhammad follows the Muslim faith and openly supports Palestine.
Q. Why was Belal Muhammad cancelled?
A. Belal Muhammad will not participate in the UFC 310 title fight due to a bone infection.
Q. Does Belal Muhammad do Ramadan?
A. Belal Muhammad, a UFC contender, believes he performs better overall when he trains and competes during Ramadan. Unlike many Muslim fighters, he chooses to continue his fight preparations throughout this holy month.
Q. Why did Belal Muhammad cancel?
A. Welterweight champion Muhammad had to pull out of his title fight against Shavkat Rakhmonov because he developed a bone infection in his foot.