Belal Muhammad reacts to Kamaru Usman’s UFC OKC struggles with sharp insight

Belal Muhammad wasn’t caught off guard by Kamaru Usman’s rough outing at UFC Oklahoma City on 18 June. **Belal Muhammad** called the former welterweight champion’s performance “not a surprise” after Usman’s split-decision loss to Leon Edwards.

What happened in the main event?

Kamaru Usman dropped a split decision to Leon Edwards in the co-main event of UFC Oklahoma City on 18 June. The 35-year-old former champion struggled to land his power shots cleanly and was outboxed for large stretches. Usman’s takedown offense, once a signature weapon, looked muted against Edwards’ lateral movement. The judges’ scorecards read 48-47, 47-48, and 48-47 in favor of Edwards.

Why it matters for Belal Muhammad

Belal Muhammad has faced both men in the past. He dropped a split decision to Edwards in 2022 and lost a unanimous decision to Usman in 2021. “I’ve been in there with both of them,” Muhammad told reporters after his own UFC 303 win. “I know what it takes to beat those guys.” His comments add weight to the idea that Usman’s recent decline isn’t a fluke but part of a broader shift in the division.

What comes next for the division?

Leon Edwards now holds the interim strap and eyes a shot at the undisputed title. Usman, once the king of the welterweight division, faces a tough road back to the top. For Belal Muhammad, the focus stays on his own climb toward another title tilt. “I’m just trying to keep my foot on the gas,” he said. “Every win gets me closer.” The welterweight picture is wide open, and Muhammad intends to be in the mix when the dust settles.