Former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad was caught off guard by the outcome in front of a familiar crowd at UFC Qatar. Inside the ABHA Arena, Dana White and the UFC made a strong presence, as fighters from the opening bout to the co-main event poured everything into the Octagon to entertain the packed arena. The highlight of the night came in the welterweight co-main event, where No. 2-ranked Muhammad went head-to-head with No. 6 contender Ian Garry.

Both fighters displayed impressive ground skills, but Garry ultimately outmaneuvered Belal Muhammad with his striking and takedown defense, earning a decision victory from the judges. This result could mark a pivotal moment in the welterweight division, especially coming just a week after UFC 322 at the historic Madison Square Garden, where Islam Makhachev claimed the title by defeating Jack Della Maddalena with his dominant ground game. Muhammad’s loss in Qatar now raises questions about his next move and how it could affect the trajectory of the division. So after UFC Qatar, what lies ahead for ‘Remember the Name’?

What comes next for UFC star Belal Muhammad after UFC Qatar?

After his recent loss, Belal Muhammad won’t be getting an immediate title shot against his occasional teammate and reigning welterweight champion, Islam Makhachev, a matchup he had long hoped to avoid, even if Makhachev moved up to 170 pounds. However, ‘Remember the Name’ recently surprised fans by hinting at a potential fight with Makhachev.

Speaking to TMZ Sports, Belal Muhammad first acknowledged Makhachev as a true MMA GOAT and then made it clear, “You’re in the sport to be the best in the world,” suggesting he would not turn down a fight against Makhachev. But with Garry climbing the rankings following this victory, the Palestinian-American star will now need to rebuild his position in the welterweight division.

Looking ahead, potential matchups could include ranked veterans like No. 8 contender Kamaru Usman, especially given their history and competitive rivalry. At the same time, undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov presents an intriguing option as he returns from an 11-month layoff next year. Additionally, fighters recently defeated at UFC 322, such as Carlos Prates and Sean Brady, could also serve as viable next opponents for Muhammad to regain momentum.

(More to Come… )