Belal Muhammad suffers bone infection that could leave him paralyzed

Shocking Withdrawal of Belal Muhammad

Belal Muhammad has shockingly pulled out of the main event for UFC 310 due to a horrifying bone infection in his left foot. On October 31, 2024, the welterweight champion announced on social media that he would be unable to engage in any physical activity for the next six weeks. Most alarmingly, Muhammad had to be hospitalized for IV antibiotics. He shared a gruesome photo of the infected toe, raising serious concerns about his health.

UFC in a State of Emergency

This shocking turn of events has plunged the UFC into a state of emergency, as they scramble to find a replacement opponent for Shavkat Rakhmonov, who was gearing up for a pivotal showdown. Rakhmonov’s participation in the December 7 event at T-Mobile Arena is now hanging by a thread. The fighter, who earned his title shot with a flawless second-round submission of Stephen Thompson at UFC 296, expressed his support for Muhammad and indicated he is ready to face anyone for the interim welterweight title at UFC 310.

Sudden Main Event Shake-Up

In another jaw-dropping twist, the main event for UFC 310 has been confirmed to feature Alexandre Pantoja defending the flyweight championship against Kai Asakura. If Muhammad can start training by mid-December, there’s a chance he could return to the octagon by late January or early February, but everything hinges on his current health crisis.

Rakhmonov Faces Massive Risks

For Rakhmonov, the search for a replacement fight is anything but straightforward. This opportunity is fraught with peril; a loss could shatter his dreams of capturing the title. Rakhmonov boasts an incredible record of 18-0, with all his victories coming by stoppage. He hasn’t fought since defeating Thompson in December 2023.

Muhammad’s Uncertain Future

Muhammad just snatched the welterweight title from Leon Edwards at UFC 304, handing Edwards his first loss since 2015. With an unbeaten streak spanning 11 fights and an overall record of 24-3-1, Muhammad remains a shining star in the MMA world. However, his current health predicament leaves fans on edge. The burning question now is: Will Muhammad be able to return and defend his title in the near future?