TLDR
- Belal Muhammad has ended his pursuit of a fight with former champion Kamaru Usman
- The decision came after Muhammad lost his title at UFC Qatar
- Fans called Muhammad’s reasoning for avoiding the matchup “entitled”
- The two fighters had been exchanging heated words for months
- Muhammad’s post-fight statement said “We have work to do,” suggesting a focus on rebuilding
Sources: Bloody Elbow | MMA Mania | Bloody Elbow
UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad has ended his pursuit of a fight against former champion Kamaru Usman. The decision comes after Muhammad lost his title at UFC Qatar in a fight that settled one of the division’s biggest rivalries.
Muhammad issued a statement following his loss at UFC Qatar, saying “We have work to do.” The brief message suggested the champion was focused on rebuilding rather than chasing high-profile matchups.
The grudge match between Muhammad and Usman had been building for months. Fans and media had discussed the fight as a natural next step given the heated exchanges between the two fighters on social media and in interviews.
Usman, a former welterweight champion, had expressed interest in facing Muhammad multiple times. The Nigerian fighter saw the matchup as an opportunity to reclaim championship status in the division he once dominated.
Belal Muhammad explains why he’s done chasing Kamaru Usman:
"The guy’s been avoiding me forever. So I’m not going to keep chasing somebody. … He got away. It’s whatever."
(🎥 @DamonMartin) pic.twitter.com/Dr5vBmh6t5
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) June 3, 2026
Fans React to Muhammad’s Change of Heart
Fans responded with confusion to Muhammad’s decision to walk away from the Usman fight. Many called the former champion’s earlier reasoning for avoiding the matchup “entitled,” questioning why he wouldn’t take on one of the division’s top contenders.
The two fighters had exchanged harsh words for several months leading up to UFC Qatar. Their rivalry appeared to be heading toward an inevitable clash inside the octagon.
UFC Qatar featured two major rivalry fights on the card. The event drew attention for its potential to settle long-standing disputes between top fighters in multiple weight classes.
Muhammad’s loss at the event appears to have changed his perspective on future matchups. The defeat marked a turning point in his championship reign and his approach to selecting opponents.
What’s Next for Both Fighters
Usman now faces uncertainty about his next opponent. The former champion has been waiting for a meaningful fight that could put him back in title contention.
Muhammad’s statement about having “work to do” indicates he plans to focus on improving his skills. The loss at UFC Qatar exposed areas where the fighter needs to develop before facing top competition again.
The welterweight division remains one of the most competitive in the UFC. Multiple contenders are now positioned to face either Muhammad or Usman in future events.
Usman held the welterweight title for several years before losing it. His experience and skill level make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.
Muhammad earned his championship through a series of wins against tough opponents. His recent loss does not erase his previous accomplishments in the octagon.
The rivalry between the two fighters developed through a combination of competitive tension and personal animosity. Both men had suggested the fight needed to happen to settle their differences.
UFC officials have not commented on whether they will attempt to book the fight in the future. The promotion typically works with fighters to schedule matchups that make sense for rankings and title implications.
Muhammad’s decision leaves the welterweight division in an interesting position. Several fighters could now step forward as potential opponents for either man in upcoming events.
