Belal Muhammad has spoken out following his unanimous decision loss to Ian Machado Garry at UFC Qatar, marking his second consecutive setback inside the octagon. The former welterweight champion entered the co-main event determined to rebound after dropping his title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315, but Garry’s striking, takedown defense and composure earned him the judges’ favor on all scorecards.
Despite the loss, Muhammad showed nothing but gratitude, faith and resolve in his first post-fight statement.
“We couldn’t get it done. Thank you Doha for the memories. Thank you to my team and family and friends that are with me no matter what and thank you to anyone that’s with me. Alhamdillah for everything I’m blessed to be here. We have work to do,” Muhammad wrote.
Muhammad previously held the welterweight title after defeating Leon Edwards at UFC 304 in July 2024, capping off an incredible unbeaten run that lasted over six years. His championship reign ended in a competitive battle against Della Maddalena, and now the veteran contender finds himself at a crossroads in a deep division filled with rising stars.
Ian Machado Garry, meanwhile, now moves to 10-1 in the UFC and has positioned himself as a legitimate title threat. After beating the former champion, Garry made it clear that his sights are firmly set on current welterweight king Islam Makhachev, confident that he has the skills to dethrone him.
While Muhammad did not provide details about his next move, his statement suggests he plans to rebuild and re-enter the title picture. Known for his relentless pressure and strategic fight IQ, Muhammad remains one of the most experienced and respected fighters in the division.
Fans can expect the veteran to return with renewed focus and determination, hungry to climb back to the top.
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