Belal Muhammad Trains in Dagestan with Khabib's Team Ahead of Title Fight
In a move that is sure to capture the attention of mixed martial arts enthusiasts worldwide, UFC welterweight contender Belal Muhammad has decided to sharpen his skills by training in Dagestan. He joins the ranks of elite fighters under the tutelage of Khabib Nurmagomedov's team, as he prepares for an upcoming title bout against reigning champion Leon Edwards.
Dagestan: A Cradle of Champions
The decision to train in Dagestan is hardly surprising given the region's reputation for producing top-tier talent in the combat sports arena. Fighters like the retired lightweight kingpin Khabib Nurmagomedov and the formidable Islam Makhachev hail from this rugged territory. It is here that the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib's father and coach, established a rigorous training system that has churned out numerous champions.
Muhammad, who shares a manager with Nurmagomedov, is no stranger to the benefits of Dagestan's demanding regimen. His past experiences training there have contributed to a notable improvement in his performance inside the Octagon, evident from his current 10-fight undefeated streak in the UFC.
Refining Grappling Skills
Muhammad's objective is clear: to enhance his grappling prowess, a critical aspect of MMA that can dictate the outcome of a fight. By immersing himself in an environment where grueling workouts are the norm and taking days off is not an option, Muhammad aims to elevate his game to new heights.
"I'm planning for sure to go to Dagestan and train with those guys. Those guys don't let you take any days off or any easy rounds. That's always perfect for me," Muhammad stated, expressing his eagerness to embrace the challenging training landscape of Dagestan.
He also acknowledges the stark contrast between his usual training sessions and what awaits him in Dagestan. "A lot of their stuff that we do when we go live or we go hard is like we're working. Over here, I do a lot of specific drilling with my team, my guys here. When it's over there, I've got to be ready to go. I've got to be ready to be in shape. It's an uncomfortable feeling. A lot of these guys, they're not who I'm with every single day," he explained.
Anticipating the Rematch with Edwards
Muhammad's impending title fight against Edwards is not just another match—it's a chance to settle unfinished business. Their previous encounter in March 2021 ended abruptly in a No Contest due to an accidental eye poke. Since then, both fighters have been on impressive winning streaks, with Muhammad undefeated in his last 10 outings and Edwards extending his own unbeaten run to 13 following a victory over Colby Covington at UFC 296.
A rematch seems not only likely but inevitable. While there has been no official announcement, Edwards has hinted at defending his title at the landmark UFC 300 event. This potential matchup has fans buzzing with anticipation, as both fighters have evolved since their first clash.
"Honestly, I think it will really wake people up to how good I am. Watching how much I've grown since that first fight, the different styles because I've leveled up so much," Muhammad reflected on his growth as a fighter and the promise of the rematch.
Conclusion
As Belal Muhammad sets his sights on UFC gold, his journey back to Dagestan signifies more than just a physical relocation for training—it's a strategic step towards mastery in a sport where every advantage counts. With the stakes higher than ever and the championship glory within reach, Muhammad is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to become the welterweight champion of the world.
The MMA community will be watching closely as Muhammad's preparation in Dagestan unfolds, leading up to what could be one of the most compelling title fights in recent UFC history. If history serves as an indicator, the intense training regimen in Dagestan may very well forge Muhammad into a champion, ready to etch his name alongside the greats of the sport.