Sun Feb 09 06:40:00 UTC 2025: **Chicago Could Host UFC Event in June, Headlined by Local Champion Belal Muhammad**
CHICAGO, IL – A potential UFC return to Chicago is on the horizon, possibly as early as June. This news comes from MMA social media influencer Krazy Kevin, who reports that newly crowned UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, a Chicago native, is aiming to defend his title for the first time in his hometown. While no official date or event name has been announced, UFC President Dana White has previously stated his intention to bring a UFC event back to Chicago in 2025, lending credence to the rumor.
Muhammad’s title defense against Shavkat Rakhmonov was initially scheduled for December 2024 but was postponed due to a bone infection suffered by Muhammad. Rakhmonov secured a victory in the interim, solidifying his position as the next challenger. A June timeframe would mean Muhammad overcoming a significant layoff.
The potential Chicago card could feature a strong local contingent. Fellow Chicago fighters Yair Rodriguez (pending his March 29th fight), and former champion Jamahal Hill (recovering from recent losses) are possible additions to the main card. Heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes, also from the Chicagoland area, is another potential participant.
This speculation follows the UFC’s upcoming event in Saudi Arabia on February 1st, which features Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov in the main event. The proposed Chicago event is dependent on Muhammad’s recovery and the UFC’s scheduling, but the possibility of a major UFC event returning to Chicago after a four-year absence is generating considerable excitement among fans.
First Piper 