Belal Muhammad, known by his nickname "Remember the Name," delivered a memorable performance at UFC 304, defeating Leon Edwards to capture the welterweight championship. The bout, held at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, England, showcased Muhammad's versatile skill set, combining stifling grappling and much-improved striking. The judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, all in favor of Muhammad.
This victory was particularly significant as it marked a rematch from their 2021 encounter, which ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke that left Muhammad unable to continue. This time, Muhammad capitalized on the opportunity, demonstrating his growth and preparation, bolstered by training with former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Muhammad started the fight aggressively, taking Edwards to the canvas early in the first round. Although Edwards managed to return to his feet and land some significant strikes, including a knee to the midsection and a left uppercut, Muhammad responded with an uppercut and secured another takedown.
The second round saw Muhammad maintaining his momentum, matching Edwards' hand speed and securing additional takedowns. Even when Edwards attempted a rear-naked choke in the third round, Muhammad's defense held strong, preventing the champion from gaining a decisive advantage.
In the fourth round, Edwards landed a left hook, but Muhammad continued to dominate with his grappling, securing yet another takedown. Edwards' brief reversal towards the end of the round wasn't enough to change the fight's outcome. In the final round, Muhammad's relentless pressure and multiple takedowns solidified his control, despite Edwards landing a late elbow that caused a cut on Muhammad.
Muhammad's victory ended Edwards' 13-fight unbeaten streak, the first defeat for the English fighter in over eight years. After the fight, Muhammad proudly declared his individuality, saying, "He said I'm no Khabib [Nurmagomedov] or Georges St-Pierre. I'm Belal Muhammad. I'm my own man. Now the world knows it and sees it; now they have to respect it. I'm a world champion."
UFC President Dana White suggested that an immediate rematch between Muhammad and Edwards was unlikely, describing the fight as "wasn't a barnburner," indicating that other contenders might get their shot at the new champion first.
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