5 blockbuster fights to book in the UFC welterweight division

#2. Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad

Gilbert Burns came up short in his recent three-round war with Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 273. However, his stock has seemingly never been higher and he's still a top-ranked contender in the UFC welterweight division.

Burns is among the cream of the crop at 170 pounds. He is likely the best grappler in the division and his striking continues to improve with every passing fight. Additionally, following his barnbuner with Chimaev, the Brazilian's toughness and durability cannot be questioned.

However, the fact that he's coming off a loss will likely see him fight someone ranked below him next. There appears to be only one logical opponent for 'Durinho' – Belal Muhammad.

Muhammad has been in sublime form over the last few years. He's lost just once since 2017 and is unbeaten in his last eight appearances in the octagon. His impressive run comprises wins over the likes of Demian Maia, Stephen Thompson and Vicente Luque.

The 33-year-old is likely one notable win away from a championship opportunity and a win over a former title challenger in Burns would further bolster his claim to a shot at gold. A potential Burns vs. Muhammad bout would serve as the perfect fight to book as the UFC looks to line up contenders for whoever holds the belt down the line.

---

#1. Colby Covington vs. Khamzat Chimaev – Winner fights for the UFC welterweight championship

With welterweight kingpin Kamaru Usman reportedly set to defend his title against Leon Edwards later this year, there is no clear-cut No.1 contender in the division. The promotion typically lines up a title eliminator bout around the same time as a title fight and it remains to be seen who'll feature in such a matchup.

Colby Covington currently occupies the top spot in the rankings, despite having faced and lost to the champion twice. Covington will likely need another high-profile victory before returning to title contention. A win over the hottest prospect in the UFC right now, Khamzat Chimaev, would give 'Chaos' enough leverage to talk himself into another championship opportunity.

Dana White seemingly confirmed the matchup before and after the UFC 273 pay-per-view, where Chimaev beat top-ranked contender Gilbert Burns to break into the top five.

Khamzat Chimaev seemingly had an unbreakable aura of invincibility going into his high stakes clash with Gilbert Burns, having finished every opponent he had previously faced in his pro career. His barnburner with Burns gave fans, analysts and his peers a lot to work with going forward. Coming away with a razor-thin decision victory, some of the chinks in Chimaev's armor were undoubtedly exposed.

However, it's important to note that 'Borz' revealed after the fight that he didn't attempt too many takedowns as he was wary of the submission threat posed by 'Durinho'.

Chimaev currently occupies the No.3 spot in the welterweight division. A win over Colby Covington, who many believe is the second-best 170-pounder in the world behind Kamaru Usman, would further solidify his claim to a title shot.

Moreover, the build-up to this fight would be an absolute spectacle. Covington's ability to draw attention is world-class, irrespective of whether or not one finds his tactics unethical. 'Chaos' will likely verbally assault Chimaev to no end leading up to a potential clash between the duo, and it'll be interesting to see if 'Borz' can keep his cool in such situations.

Every way you look at it, it's an incredible matchup. Stylistically, they are very similar. Both fighters come from wrestling backgrounds and seemingly have unmatched grit and durability. Chimaev likely has the power advantage, while Covington largely relies on his volume and relentless pressure. A shot at UFC gold beckons for the victor.