Belal Muhammad out of UFC 310 main event vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov, Rakhmonov reacts

Belal Muhammad’s first title defense will have to wait.

The UFC welterweight champion announced Thursday that he is out of his UFC 310 main event matchup with challenger Shavkat Rakhmonov due to a bone infection in his foot. Al Zullino first reported Muhammad’s withdrawal on Twitter.

Muhammad shared the news in a social media post.

“Caught a bone infection in my foot,” Muhammad wrote. “Had to put a PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) line in my arm for IV antibiotics the next six weeks with no physical activity.

“Allah’s plan is the best plan. I’m sorry to everyone that were coming to see me. I’ll be back soon. Inshallah.”

As of now, the UFC is seeking out a replacement for Rakhmonov, but a person with knowledge of the situation told MMA Fighting it’s unknown whether or not the undefeated fighter will compete on the Dec. 7 fight card at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas or if the matchup will be moved to a later date and location.

Muhammad captured the title with a unanimous decision victory over Leon Edwards at UFC 304 in July. “Remember the Name” is unbeaten in his past 11 bouts, and hasn’t tasted defeat in nearly six years.

Rakhmonov earned his first UFC championship opportunity with a second-round submission of Stephen Thompson at UFC 296 this past December. “Nomad” has finished all 18 of the opponents he’s faced as a pro.

Following the news, Rakhmonov wished Muhammad well and suggested he is willing to fight anyone at UFC 310 for an interim welterweight title.

Wishing Belal a quick recovery. We’ll meet when you’re back at 100%. For now, I’m ready to take on any contender for the interim title at #UFC310

— Shavkat “Nomad” Rakhmonov (@Rakhmonov1994) October 31, 2024