Belal Muhammad and Ian Machado Garry are set to face off in a high-stakes bout at UFC Qatar.
Islam Makhachev, the new welterweight champion, is currently seeking an opponent for his first title defense.
Last weekend, Michael Morales earned a title shot by knocking out Sean Brady, while Carlos Prates also pushed for a chance at the belt after defeating Leon Edwards at UFC 322.
The winner of the Muhammad vs. Machado-Garry fight could move to the forefront in the 170-pound division.
Who will come out on top? Here’s what Bloody Elbow’s writers predict for this UFC Qatar co-main event.
Latest update: Ian Machado-Garry has dismissed rumors that Kamaru Usman was favored to win the next welterweight title.
UFC Qatar fight card highlights include Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker, Volkan Oezdemir vs. Alonzo Menifield, and Jack Hermansson vs. Miktibek Olorubai, among others.
Predictions from the Bloody Elbow team:
Jordan Ellis thinks Machado-Garry’s fight IQ and skill set will help him avoid grappling with Muhammad, predicting Muhammad will likely lose a decision after five rounds.
Until Kobe admits a bias for Machado-Garry but believes he is the best welterweight on the planet and will prove it against Muhammad, possibly needing a knockout to secure the win.
Harvey Leonard points to Muhammad’s strong grappling and past successes, but takes Machado-Garry’s technical abilities seriously, leaning towards a decision win for the Irish fighter.
Kyle Dimond considers Muhammad’s age and recent loss a disadvantage, favoring Machado-Garry at this point in their careers.
Jamie Theodosi sees Machado-Garry’s superior fight IQ edging out Muhammad, expecting a distance fight that ends in Garcia’s decision victory.
Fan Take: This matchup is crucial as it could reshape the welterweight title picture and showcase a potential new top contender. Fans should watch closely, as the outcome may signal a shift in the division’s power dynamics and set the tone for upcoming championship battles.
