UFC 304 live updates: Results, highlights, odds as Leon Edwards faces Belal Muhammad in rematch
UFC 304: Leon Edwards vs Belal Muhammad 2 – Live Results and Highlights
Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad are set to headline UFC 304 in a highly anticipated rematch for the welterweight title. The co-main event features an interim heavyweight title fight between champion Tom Aspinall and challenger Curtis Blaydes.
Edwards (22-3-0-1) will be defending his welterweight crown for the third time since winning the title in August 2022. He’s on a 13-fight unbeaten streak and is coming off a decision win over Colby Covington in December.
Muhammad (23-3-0-1) is the No. 2 ranked welterweight and has won five straight fights. His most recent victory was a decision over Gilbert Burns in May 2023.
In their first meeting in March 2021, the fight ended in a no contest after an eye poke from Edwards. Both fighters have vowed to finish the other this time, with Edwards warning Muhammad is “as good as dead” and Muhammad predicting a knockout win.
Aspinall (14-3) claimed the interim heavyweight title in November 2023 with a KO of Sergei Pavlovich. He’s looking to avenge his 15-second loss to Blaydes (18-4-0-1) in their 2022 bout, which ended when Aspinall suffered a knee injury.
The main card also features a lightweight bout between No. 15 Bobby Green and Paddy Pimblett, who is looking to crack the rankings in his sixth UFC fight.
UFC 304 takes place at the new Co-op Live arena in Manchester, England. The early prelims begin at 6pm local time, with the main card starting at 10pm and the main event expected around 2:30am.
The fights can be watched on ESPN+ PPV in the US and Main Event on Kayo Sports in Australia.
Stay tuned for live updates, results, highlights and the official scorecards as the action unfolds at UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad
What are the key factors that could influence the Edwards vs. Muhammad rematch
Several key factors could influence the rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad at UFC 304:
1. Fighter Momentum and Recent Performance
Both fighters come into this rematch with impressive winning streaks. Edwards has won four consecutive fights since their first encounter, including successful title defenses against Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington, showcasing his striking and grappling skills. Muhammad, on the other hand, enters with a five-fight win streak, including a notable victory over Gilbert Burns, indicating his growth and resilience in the octagon.
2. Striking and Grappling Dynamics
Edwards is known for his striking versatility and ability to mix up targets, which could give him an edge in stand-up exchanges. His experience allows him to land quality shots while also integrating takedowns effectively. In contrast, Muhammad has improved his striking over the years and possesses strong wrestling and cardio, which he may rely on to control the pace of the fight. The effectiveness of Edwards’ 70% takedown defense will be crucial if Muhammad attempts to grapple.
3. Physical Attributes
Edwards has a height and reach advantage, standing at 6’2″ with a 74″ reach, compared to Muhammad’s 5’11” and 72″ reach. This could play a significant role in striking exchanges, allowing Edwards to maintain distance and utilize his reach to land strikes while evading counterattacks.
4. Fight Strategy and Game Plan
The strategies employed by both fighters will be pivotal. Edwards is likely to adopt a methodical approach, utilizing his striking to keep Muhammad at bay while mixing in clinch work and takedowns to control the fight. Muhammad may need to push the pace and apply pressure to disrupt Edwards’ rhythm and capitalize on any openings.
5. Mental and Emotional Factors
The psychological aspect of the fight cannot be overlooked. Edwards has expressed confidence in his abilities and has made strong statements about the outcome, while Muhammad has been vocal about his desire to avenge their previous encounter. The mental state of both fighters leading up to and during the fight could significantly impact their performance.
6. Judging and Fight Duration
Given both fighters’ tendencies to go the distance in their bouts, the judges’ scoring could be a factor if the fight goes the full five rounds. Edwards has a history of winning by decision, and if the fight remains competitive, the judges’ perceptions of effective striking and control will be crucial.
These factors combined will create a dynamic and potentially unpredictable rematch as both fighters look to assert their dominance in the welterweight division.
What strategies might Edwards use to counter Muhammad’s wrestling
Leon Edwards can employ several strategies to counter Belal Muhammad’s wrestling in their rematch at UFC 304. Here are some key tactics he might utilize:
1. Utilizing Range and Striking
Edwards is known for his striking ability, particularly his reach and precision. By maintaining distance, he can utilize his long limbs to keep Muhammad at bay. Edwards can employ push kicks and teeps to deter Muhammad’s advances, making it difficult for him to close the distance and initiate takedowns. This strategy will force Muhammad to think twice before engaging, potentially leading him to become hesitant or overcommitted.
2. Effective Use of the Clinch
Edwards has developed a strong clinch game, which he can use to his advantage if Muhammad tries to grapple. By controlling the clinch, Edwards can deliver damaging knees and elbows while preventing Muhammad from executing takedowns. His ability to maintain head positioning and control the opponent’s body can disrupt Muhammad’s rhythm and limit his wrestling effectiveness.
3. Counter-Wrestling Techniques
Edwards has focused on anti-wrestling techniques throughout his career. If taken down, he can utilize effective get-up strategies, such as framing and creating space to stand back up. His experience against high-level wrestlers like Kamaru Usman has equipped him with the skills to defend against takedowns and escape from unfavorable positions.
4. Mixing in Takedowns
To keep Muhammad guessing, Edwards can incorporate his own takedown attempts. By mixing strikes with takedown threats, he can create openings and disrupt Muhammad’s game plan. This unpredictability will force Muhammad to spread his focus between defending against strikes and preparing for potential takedowns.
5. Maintaining Composure and Control
Edwards has emphasized the importance of controlling the pace of the fight. By staying calm and composed, he can avoid being drawn into Muhammad’s wrestling-heavy strategy. This mental edge will allow him to implement his game plan effectively, ensuring he capitalizes on any mistakes Muhammad makes.
6. Exploiting Muhammad’s Tendencies
Edwards has noted that he believes Muhammad is “too slow” and “tailor-made” for him, suggesting he might look to exploit any overreaches or mistakes made by Muhammad during exchanges. By being patient and waiting for the right moments to counter, Edwards can capitalize on openings created by Muhammad’s aggressive style.
By employing these strategies, Edwards can effectively counter Muhammad’s wrestling and leverage his striking and clinch skills to secure a victory in their rematch.
What role does Khabib Nurmagomedov’s training play in Muhammad’s strategy
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s training is likely playing a significant role in shaping Belal Muhammad’s strategy for his UFC 304 rematch against Leon Edwards. Here’s how:
Intense Physical Conditioning
Nurmagomedov is known for putting his fighters through grueling training regimens that focus on building immense physical strength, endurance and grappling skills. By training with Nurmagomedov, Muhammad has undoubtedly gained the conditioning needed to pressure Edwards for five rounds and wear him down with relentless wrestling.
Nurmagomedov’s Coaching Expertise
As a dominant former UFC champion, Nurmagomedov brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his coaching. He has been instrumental in the success of fighters like Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov. His guidance is likely helping Muhammad refine his wrestling techniques and develop the right mental approach to defeat Edwards.
Exploiting Edwards’ Weaknesses
Nurmagomedov may be helping Muhammad identify and exploit any weaknesses in Edwards’ game. As an elite grappler himself, Nurmagomedov can provide valuable insights into how to take the fight to the ground and control Edwards there. This could be a key part of Muhammad’s strategy.
Confidence Boost
Simply having Nurmagomedov in his corner could give Muhammad a major confidence boost heading into the rematch. Knowing he has trained with one of the greatest fighters ever may make Muhammad feel he is better prepared than ever to defeat Edwards.
However, Edwards has dismissed the notion that Nurmagomedov’s involvement will make a significant difference, stating that Muhammad’s style has been the same for years. Edwards remains confident in his own abilities and game plan.
Ultimately, while Nurmagomedov’s training is undoubtedly a factor, the outcome will come down to how well Muhammad executes his strategy against the skills and adjustments made by Edwards in the rematch. It promises to be a fascinating clash of styles and strategies.
