Belal Muhammad is set to return at UFC 310 where he will put his welterweight title on the line for the first time against Shavkat Rakhmonov. The undefeated contender comes into December 7 as the favorite despite the champion’s own impressive winning streak.
Rakhmonov’s ability to finish opponents is simply remarkable, with all 18 of his pro wins coming inside the distance. This, in a lot of people’s eyes, makes it an uphill battle for Muhammad who is not known for closing the show early.
Where the champion excels in his approach and relentless drive to break opponents with his constant pressure and gas tank. His preparation and strategy is where a top welterweight contender believes this fight becomes competitive.
Joaquin Buckley Says That Belal Muhammad’s Approach Is What Makes Him Competitive With Shavkat Rakhmonov
In a recent interview with Luke Thomas, Joaquin Buckley gave his thoughts on the upcoming title fight in his division. The #9-ranked welterweight contender is coming off of a devastating finish over Stephen Thompson and could find himself in title talks with one more big win.
Buckley said in his opinion, this fight is interesting because you know that Muhammad is going to come into Las Vegas with extensive homework and adjustments. “New Mansa” believes that this is at odds with the confidence of Rakhmonov who is not going to have the same approach of analyzing every detail.
Muhammad’s ability to adapt to different opponents and choose the best path to victory is where Buckley feels that the champion has an advantage.
“I think it’s a good fight and it’s only going to be a good fight because the way that Belal comes. Every time when he sets himself to fight an opponent, he prepares himself in the right way. Shavkat, I believe that he’s just the type of fighter that he believes just his talents and his gifts is going to take him as far as it’s been taking him now where he’s been finishing everybody.
I don’t believe that Shavkat, in my personal opinion, is doing any film study on Belal or how he gonna beat him. Shavkat believes just in his head that him stepping in the cage with Belal is going to be good enough but I don’t think it’s going to be the other way around with Belal.
I believe Belal is going to try to see what is going to be his best opportunities to take the fight where he needs to in order to get the decision.”
