Kamaru Usman downplays any animosity towards Belal Muhammad despite past tensions, focusing instead on his return to the UFC and ambitions to reclaim and expand his championship status.
Kamaru Usman has faced fierce rivalries in his UFC journey, but he doesn’t see Belal Muhammad in that light. Despite exchanges on interviews and social media, Usman downplays any real animosity toward Muhammad.
Muhammad expressed interest in fighting Usman to reclaim his spot in the title race after losing to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. However, Usman didn’t reciprocate when asked about the matchup during UFC Atlanta media day.
“When Belal Muhammad was champion, there was a reason to fight him,” Usman stated. “We’re not best friends, but he’s my Muslim brother, so no hard feelings.”
Usman questioned what Muhammad could offer him, joking about side deals or extra cash. He expressed hope for Muhammad’s recovery from his recent loss.
Interest in their potential fight also stems from a notorious podcast episode that never aired. Allegedly, tensions ran high, with claims of physical exchanges during recording.
Usman didn’t comment on the podcast but reiterated no animosity toward Muhammad now. He recalled past rivalries with Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal, noting they were on a different level.
“There was never bad blood,” Usman explained. “With Belal, it’s just a guy in the division who did well. I wish him well.”
Before any future matchups, Usman faces Buckley at UFC Atlanta, marking his return after nearly two years. He used the break to heal injuries, especially his knees, which have been a topic of speculation.
Usman revealed his knees were worse when he joined the UFC in 2015. “I’m good now,” he assured. “People joke, but I’ve been winning with these knees.”
With full health, Usman aims for championships, not just victories. He laid out an ambitious plan: defeat Buckley, then target the winner of Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena.
Usman envisions blockbuster fights, potentially moving to middleweight for a showdown with Dricus du Plessis or Khamzat Chimaev. “These are fights you tell your grandkids about,” he mused, dreaming of holding two belts.