"It's a bad matchup for either fighter" - Fans debate how a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Belal Muhammad fight will play out 

MMA fans recently voiced their opinions after witnessing the odds for a potential fight between Islam Makhachev and Belal Muhammad. Many of them talked about the quality of the matchup along with predicting how the fight may end.

The UFC brass has already booked Makhachev's next fight against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. The two will lock horns inside the octagon almost six years after their first matchup where Makhachev tasted victory via a unanimous decision. Makhachev will look to defend his lightweight title for the fourth time, with his last encounter ending with a submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302.

Makhachev expressed his wish to fight for the "second belt" during his octagon interview with Joe Rogan after his victory at UFC 302. A recent X update from @OnPointMMA gave out the betting odds for this potential matchup set by BetUS.

The comments section of the post showcased fans presenting a plethora of opinions about the fight. One of them opined:

"In a way, it's a bad matchup for either fighter"

Others expressed contradicting thoughts, writing:

"Belal is so good everywhere. This would be competitive as hell, but idk how you bet against Belal right now vs anyone at 170."

"Islam would dominate he’s just better everywhere."

"Islam finishes Belal [in the] 5th round"

Check out some more reactions:

[Screenshot Courtesy: @OnPointMMA on X]

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Islam Makhachev's coach weighed in on potential bout against Belal Muhammad

The comments on the aforementioned post showcase that the MMA community is in splits regarding an Islam Makhachev vs. Belal Muhammad fight. But Makhachev's words during his UFC 302 octagon interview indicate that there's a bright possibility of the materialization of this encounter.

In another recent interview with The Schmo, Makhachev's coach, Javier Mendez, expressed his take on a potential Makhachev vs. Muhammad encounter. Mendez opined that Makhachev possibly won't go up to welterweight until Muhammad held the title. He said:

"As long as Belal is where he's at, I don't think Islam will go up. I really don't, I could be wrong because he can make the decision for himself. But I'm thinking as long as [Belal is champion] he won't want to [move up]."

Check out Javier Mendez's comments below (03:59):