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Belal Muhammad gives bold prediction for Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria

Mathew Riddle

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Belal Muhammad has offered his official prediction for the rumored lightweight title clash between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev.

Topuria vacated his featherweight belt on the UFC's promise of a title fight. After some deliberation from Team Makhachev, it would seem a deal is being finalized, with Topuria announcing his camp has begun.

There's no guarantee Topuria fights Makhachev later this year, but this hasn't stopped pundits, and champions like Muhammad, from giving their predictions.

Islam Makhache
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

UFC champ Belal Muhammad backs Islam Makhachev to upset Ilia Topuria

Speaking with Submission Radio, Muhammad backed his friend and teammate Makhachev to win the fight.

"No [I don't think Topuria is a challenge], I think he finishes Topuria in the second round," Muhammad remarked. "... Honestly, I just see Islam dominating all these guys."

Makhachev has stated he won't retire without a second belt, which would most likely be the welterweight title. Many fans believe the status of Makhachev vs. Topuria rests on the result of Jack Della Maddalena vs. Muhammad at UFC 315; If 'JDM' wins, Makhachev moves up.

If Muhammad wins, it's likely we'll be seeing Makhachev vs. Topuria. With a win, Makhachev would extend his lightweight defense record to five.

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Mathew Riddle
MATHEW RIDDLE

Mathew is a UK-based combat sports journalist, graphic designer, and SEO expert with half a decade of digital marketing and a dedicated four-year track record in MMA journalism. He joined MMA Knockout when it was founded in 2023. Mathew's insights have been featured on Bloody Elbow, The Fight Fanatic, and Heavy on UFC. He runs Warrior Tribune and can be contacted by his Muckrack profile.

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