Belal Muhammad's return to competition at UFC Vegas 118 has been derailed by an injury that forced a fighter withdrawal from the card. Muhammad was attempting to snap a two-fight losing streak with this comeback bout, making the injury particularly unfortunate timing for his career resurgence. The withdrawal represents another setback for the former title contender as he works to rebuild momentum in the welterweight division. UFC Vegas 118 has been impacted by the fighter withdrawal, requiring card adjustments. Muhammad's injury status and timeline for return remain to be determined.
Reports have emerged suggesting Belal Muhammad has been forced to withdraw from UFC Vegas 118 due to injury, though the news has not been officially confirmed. The setback would mark yet another blow to the welterweight contender's efforts to regain his footing in the division.
Muhammad, nicknamed "Remember the Name," enters this period of his career with a record of 24 wins and 5 losses, currently ranked sixth in the welterweight division and eighth in the pound-for-pound standings. The 37-year-old American, who trains out of Roufusport, had been attempting to snap a two-fight losing streak with this scheduled comeback appearance. Standing five feet eleven inches tall with a 72-inch reach, Muhammad has built his reputation as a high-volume, well-rounded fighter, averaging 4.43 significant strikes landed per minute along with 2.14 takedowns per 15 minutes.
If confirmed, the withdrawal would represent a significant disruption to UFC Vegas 118, with the promotion required to make card adjustments in response. For Muhammad personally, the timing is particularly difficult. A former title contender who once held the welterweight championship, he has been working to rebuild momentum after back-to-back defeats, and the inability to compete extends that rebuilding process further.
Why it matters
- Muhammad is ranked sixth at welterweight, meaning his extended absence has direct implications for how the division's contender picture takes shape
- A two-fight skid already placed pressure on his standing; further inactivity could affect his ranking position
- His well-rounded style — combining solid striking volume with consistent takedown output — makes him a relevant force at 170 pounds when healthy, and the division will feel his continued absence
