Belal Muhammad pulled off an impressive victory at UFC 304, winning the UFC welterweight title from Leon Edwards. The fight took place on July 27, 2024, in Manchester, England.
It was a rematch everyone was waiting for, and Muhammad didn’t disappoint. He won by unanimous decision, with the judges scoring the bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.
This win marked Muhammad’s sixth straight victory in the UFC, making him a top contender in the welterweight division.
The last time Belal Muhammad and Edwards met in 2021, the fight ended in a no contest because of an accidental eye poke.
Since then, Edwards had defended his title twice, including a win over Colby Covington.
Key Highlights: Belal Muhammad’s UFC 304 Victory
- Unanimous Decision Win:Â Belal Muhammad outperformed Leon Edwards, winning with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.
- Effective Grappling: Strategic takedowns and grappling by Muhammad disrupted Edwards’ game plan.
- Resilient Mindset: Muhammad’s “uncommon man” approach and mental toughness shone through, sealing his place as the new champion.
Key Moments in the Fight
Round-by-Round Breakdown
- Belal Muhammad started strong, showing off his superior striking skills. He landed more significant strikes than Edwards, controlling the pace and distance of the fight.
- His constant pressure kept Edwards on the defensive, making it hard for him to find his rhythm.
Impactful Strikes
- Muhammad’s punches and kicks were spot on, especially in the later rounds. These strikes clearly affected Edwards and played a big role in the judges’ decision.
Grappling and Takedowns
- Muhammad’s grappling skills were crucial. He managed to get takedowns at key moments, throwing off Edwards’ game plan and earning important points.
Octagon Control and Defense
- Muhammad did a great job controlling the center of the octagon. By keeping the pressure on, he limited Edwards’ movement and made him stay defensive.
- He also showcased excellent defense, dodging many of Edwards’ attacks and conserving his energy.
Judges’ Verdict
The unanimous decision in favor of Muhammad showed how well he performed in every aspect of the fight. The judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, highlighting his striking, grappling, and overall control in the octagon.
An Inspiring Mindset
Muhammad’s journey to the championship wasn’t easy. He drew inspiration from retired Navy SEAL David Goggins, adopting the mindset of being “an uncommon man.” This means going above and beyond in a competitive world. Muhammad summed it up when he said:
“All fighters are uncommon… you’ve got to work that much harder than all these other guys.”
After the fight, he expressed his gratitude and determination, stating:
“There’s no more running now.”
This victory wasn’t just about technical skills; it showed Belal Muhammad mental strength and growth as a fighter.
His win at UFC 304 cements his place at the top of the welterweight division.
Now, as the new champion, everyone’s wondering who’ll step up to challenge him next.
It’s an exciting time for UFC fans and fighters alike!
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How Islam Makhachev Became a Top UFC Fighter: His Journey, Training, and Big Wins
How Did Dustin Poirier Become the Diamond of the UFC? Unveiling His Secrets
