Jon Anik clarifies after fan calls him out for "public glazing" of Belal Muhammad

UFC color commentator Jon Anik clarified his stance after a fan called him out for publicly praising reigning UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad.

Kamaru Usman recently suggested that Islam Makhachev should move up to welterweight to claim a second belt by fighting ‘Remember the Name’. The Dagestani has often expressed his desire to earn a second title but has refrained from moving up, as he shares a good relationship with Muhammad. Both are signed to the same management team and frequently train together.

Muhammad did not take Usman's remarks lightly and slammed him, highlighting ‘The Nigerian Nightmare's' three-fight losing streak. He also mocked Usman by suggesting he should rename his podcast to "Loss After Loss."

Anik, who shares a great relationship with Muhammad, noticed the post on X and responded with a simple one-word reaction, "Lol." This didn’t sit well with an MMA fan, who called out the UFC commentator for allegedly favoring the reigning welterweight champion.

The fan wrote:

“Jon ur a commentator mate you can’t continue your public glazing of Belal.”

Anik replied, clarifying that he does not solely support Muhammad but also extends his support to all UFC fighters, including Usman. Anik wrote:

“Call it what you will. I support/defend many, many athletes on the roster, Reindeer Fan. Think most of them would say they've individually felt my support, including Kamaru.”

Late last year, Muhammad was scheduled to defend his belt against Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310. However, he pulled out due to a toe infection and has been out of action since winning the title at UFC 304.

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Jon Anik heaps praise on Belal Muhammad following his title win at UFC 304

Belal Muhammad delivered a spectacular performance against Leon Edwards, claiming the UFC welterweight title in front of his opponent’s home crowd at UFC 304.

Following the event, Jon Anik shared a photo of himself and Muhammad on Instagram and penned a heartfelt message praising the new 170-pound champion. Anik wrote:

"I've always said the best part of this job is witnessing a fighter breakthrough, complete their mission as a UFC champion, and effectively change their life forever. [Belal Muhammad's] path was more arduous than most, so this feels particularly special."