Belal Muhammad, currently ranked #7 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings and holding the welterweight title, showcased his ability to go five rounds with impressive cardio in his title-winning bout against Leon Edwards. Reacting to this performance, a UFC legend praised Muhammad, calling his cardio one of the best in the UFC. He also pointed out that this could be Muhammad’s most underrated weapon going into his upcoming fight at UFC 315.
Former opponent Stephen Thompson praised Belal Muhammad’s outstanding cardio, saying he had never seen anything like it. A year later, Khabib Nurmagomedov shared a similar view, backing Belal to successfully defend his title at UFC 315.
According to Khabib, Belal’s relentless pressure, wrestling, and striking over five rounds make him a tough challenge for anyone, especially if his opponents can’t get an early finish. In a recent interview with Adam Zubayraev, the former lightweight champ said,
“I believe it will be very hard to beat Belal. If Maddalena or Shavkat dont finish him early, Belal is just going to keep pressing. His endurance is really good. In fact, I think it’s the most underrated aspect in MMA today.
Khabib Nurmagomedov says Belal Muhammad's cardio is the most underrated aspect in MMA today:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 15, 2025
"I believe it will be very hard to beat Belal. If Maddalena or Shavkat dont finish him early, Belal is just going to keep pressing…
His endurance is really good. In fact, I think it's… pic.twitter.com/w6Zbe9UToI
Belal Muhammad Targets Shavkat Rakhmonov Next: “I Want To Take These Guys’ 0s”
Fans were looking forward to Belal Muhammad defending his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov, but injuries have delayed the matchup again, with Rakhmonov pulling out of UFC 315. Muhammad will now face Jack Della Maddalena but still sees Rakhmonov as the top contender. Speaking to MMA Junkie, he said,
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“It’s so easy to get injured in this sport. The training is the hardest part. We just saw it with Hooker and Arman. It sucks, and like I said, me building my legacy, I want to take these guys’ 0s.”
Belal Muhammad happy to rebook Shavkat Rakhmonov fight after UFC 315: 'I want to take these guys' 0s' https://t.co/hJRMe0lYpH
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) March 1, 2025
Muhammad, riding an 11-fight unbeaten streak, is determined to cement his legacy by taking out top contenders. With his upcoming title defense against JDM, fans believe Shavkat Rakhmonov is next in line for a shot at gold. But the big question remains — who will Rakhmonov face next: JDM or Muhammad? UFC 315 will have the answer.
Also Read: Belal Muhammad Takes A Dig At Leon Edwards With Bold Prediction For Upcoming Bout
