Belal Muhammad Sparks Scuffle at RAF Press Conference on July 13
**Belal Muhammad** ignited a physical altercation with Colby Covington at the RAF 11 post‑fight press conference on **Saturday, 13 July 2026**, after officials announced their upcoming wrestling match. The incident forced staff to separate the two fighters and has heightened anticipation for their showdown at RAF 12 on 22 August in Cleveland.
What happened at the press conference?
During the press event in Milwaukee, Covington and Muhammad exchanged heated words before Muhammad launched a kick that connected with Covington’s thigh. Security quickly moved in, pulling the athletes apart before the situation escalated further. Video footage captured from multiple angles shows the sudden flare‑up, underscoring the tension that followed their respective victories at RAF 11.
Why the scuffle matters for Belial Muhammad’s career?
Both fighters entered the night with wins: Covington defeated Arman Tsarukyan in the main event, while Muhammad beat Ben Askren in the co‑headliner. The scuffle adds a personal rivalry element to their upcoming wrestling bout, potentially boosting viewership and pay‑per‑view buys. For Muhammad, the incident reinforces his reputation as a fierce competitor willing to defend his standing, a trait that could influence future UFC match‑making decisions.
How does this affect the upcoming RAF 12 event?
RAF officials confirmed that the wrestling match between Covington and Muhammad will co‑headline **RAF 12 on 22 August 2026** in Cleveland. The altercation has already generated buzz on social media, with fans debating who holds the psychological edge. Promoters are likely to market the bout as a clash of personalities as much as a contest of skill, which could translate into higher ticket sales and broader media coverage.
What’s next for Belial Muhammad after the scuffle?
Muhammad returns to training camp focusing on grappling and conditioning ahead of the August showdown. His team will likely address the incident publicly, emphasizing professionalism while leveraging the heightened attention. If the wrestling match proceeds as billed, a victory could position Muhammad for a potential return to UFC welterweight contention, while a loss might shift his trajectory toward alternative combat‑sport opportunities.
The incident at the RAF 11 press conference illustrates how quickly emotions can spill over in the high‑stakes world of mixed‑martial arts, and it sets the tone for what promises to be a compelling encounter between two of the sport’s most outspoken figures.