In a recent clip that has sparked discussion within the MMA community, former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman expressed concern about the nature of Belal Muhammad’s recent comments, suggesting they contradict Muhammad’s religious values.
“I don’t think that’s very Muslim-esque,” Usman remarked when asked about Muhammad’s recent verbal attacks. “I don’t think that’s what we care about.”
Usman, who has maintained a relatively respectful approach throughout his career, pointed out what he perceives as hypocrisy in Muhammad’s behavior, particularly given Muhammad’s previous criticisms of other guy’s promotional tactics.
“This is a guy that really is, for as much as you say you don’t like Covington for what Covington did to get to the top of the division and how he talks to people, you’re not far from it right now,” Usman stated, drawing parallels between Muhammad’s recent behavior and that of Colby Covington, a fighter known for his controversial promotional style.
The former champion suggested that fans are becoming increasingly aware of this apparent contradiction. “I think a lot of fans see that and a lot of fans understand that as well,” he added.
Muhammad, who recently captured the welterweight title, has intensified his verbal approach in recent months, creating what some observers see as a departure from his earlier persona in the sport.
The comments highlight the ongoing debate in combat sports about the line between effective promotion and personal attacks, particularly when they appear to conflict with an athlete’s professed values.
Neither Muhammad nor his representatives have yet responded to Usman’s comments. Cejudo recently shared details about an intense behind-the-scenes drama between current welterweight champion Belal Muhammad and former champion Kamaru Usman.
“Sorry, can I tell you something, Mike?” the guest said during the podcast. “It was, I almost got kicked, bro. Like there were punches were thrown, dude.”
The incident reportedly occurred when the former champion was dealing with an injury. “And I had a messed up ankle at that time. So Kamaru, Usman, and Belal, dude, Belal almost kicked me to my head, dude. Luckily I did a little slip, but yeah, it was definitely rated R,” he explained.
