Belal Muhammad names who deserves and who likely gets UFC title shot

Belal Muhammad believes there is a difference between who deserves the next UFC welterweight title shot and who is most likely to receive it.

With champion Islam Makhachev still waiting to make his first title defense, several contenders are pushing for the opportunity. Former champion Kamaru Usman, Ian Machado Garry, and unbeaten contender Michael Morales are all considered possible challengers.

Muhammad, who lost a decision to Machado Garry at UFC Fight Night 265 last November, thinks Morales has done the most to earn the shot. Morales remained undefeated by stopping Sean Brady in the opening round at UFC 322, the same event where Makhachev became champion.

According to Muhammad, Morales’ dominant finish over Brady was the most impressive performance among the leading contenders.

“Morales probably deserves it the most,” Muhammad said. “He’s undefeated, and what he did against Brady was huge. I don’t think Kamaru should be in the title conversation right now. Ian is talented, but I still have questions about whether he can handle five full rounds at a high pace.”

Muhammad also suggested Morales should focus less on trash talk and more on building his public profile in a more natural way.

“He’s trying to get attention by going after Islam, but I don’t think that’s what will help him most,” Muhammad said. “He should do more interviews, podcasts, and media appearances to get his name out there.”

Despite that, Muhammad expects Machado Garry to end up with the title opportunity because of his ability to promote himself and attract attention.

“I think Ian is probably the one who gets it,” Muhammad said. “He has a strong fanbase behind him, he knows how to sell himself, and he’s doing a great job of putting himself in position. He’s very smart in the way he fights, but if Islam gets him down, it could be a very difficult fight for him.”