Louis Taylor thinks Shavkat Rakhmonov must end Belal Muhammad to beat him.
Taylor expects Rakhmonov (18-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) to probably be Muhammad’s (24-3 MMA, 15-3 UFC) first title protection. Rakhmonov has a 100% end price, however Muhammad’s head coach warns him of Muhammad’s tempo and cardio.
“Gasoline tank goes to be an element, and I believe we beat him 3-2 or 4-1,” Taylor advised Sportskeeda. “I take a look at individuals like Shavkat. Shavkat’s a finisher, and he’s good at it. However should you don’t put Belal out of there, he’s going to maintain coming.”
Former champion Kamaru Usman (20-4 MMA, 15-3 UFC) additionally seems to be within the operating for a title shot after constantly buying and selling barbs with Muhammad.
“I imply, I would favor ‘no-knees’ Usman,” Taylor stated. “However no, no, no. Each of these guys are effectively deserving and effectively revered. Once more, should you go for the numbers sport, it’s Usman. For those who go for the legacy sport, taking somebody’s 0, it might be Shavkat.”
Rakhmonov advised MMA Combating that Muhammad rejected an October return, one thing the champion dominated out from the beginning. Muhammad claimed the title simply over a month in the past when he dominated Leon Edwards for essentially the most half at UFC 304.
Taylor thinks a short time after October works to schedule his first title protection.
“For those who watch Belal’s profession, the yr or no matter it was spat that we needed to wait from the Gilbert Burns battle till the Leon battle, that was actually the longest layoff Belal has ever had,” Taylor stated. “It made me nervous stepping up from such an extended layoff into such a high-caliber bout. I believe we should always battle in November, December. (That) can be nice.”
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