Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad: Record Analysis Reveals Why ‘Rocky’ Has The Edge at UFC 304

There’s a storm brewing in the welterweight division, and at the center of it are two men with unfinished business. Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad are set to clash at UFC 304, and I’ve been diving deep into what makes this matchup so compelling.

When I look at that tale of the tape, one thing jumps out immediately – Edwards’ resume is something special.

The Champion’s Pedigree: Edwards’ Elite Resume

On paper, Edwards has the superior record – and what a record it is. The Birmingham fighter has carved his path through the division’s elite, collecting scalps that read like a UFC Hall of Fame nomination list:

• Nate Diaz
• Kamaru Usman (the man many considered the pound-for-pound best)
• Rafael dos Anjos (former lightweight champion)
• Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone
• Colby Covington

That’s not just a list of wins – it’s a statement. Edwards hasn’t just beaten fighters; he’s beaten champions and contenders during their prime years.

Muhammad’s Path to the Title Shot

Let’s not dismiss Belal, though. “Remember the Name” has been on an absolute tear, putting together a streak that can’t be ignored. His most recent victories over Gilbert Burns and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson showed he belongs in the elite conversation.

But there’s something about Muhammad’s rise that feels different from Edwards’. While impressive, his wins haven’t come against the same caliber of championship-level competition that Edwards has faced and defeated.

The Unfinished Chapter

I still remember watching their first fight end in that unfortunate eye poke. There was this collective sigh from the MMA community – we’d been robbed of what was shaping up to be an interesting clash of styles.

Now, with both men evolved and Edwards wearing gold, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Style Breakdown: What Makes This Fight Compelling

Edwards brings this technical striking masterpiece to the table. His ability to control distance, pick opponents apart, and make strategic adjustments mid-fight (remember that head kick against Usman?) makes him one of the most cerebral champions we’ve seen.

Muhammad counters with relentless pressure and wrestling. His cardio seems limitless, and his ability to break opponents mentally through sustained pressure is reminiscent of Khabib’s approach, albeit with a different technical toolbox.

Fighter	Key Strengths	Notable Wins
Leon Edwards	Technical striking, fight IQ, adaptability	Usman, Diaz, Covington
Belal Muhammad	Pressure wrestling, cardio, durability	Burns, Thompson, Brady

The X-Factor: Championship Experience

Here’s where I see the biggest difference – Edwards has been there. He’s felt the pressure of defending UFC gold, of being the hunted rather than the hunter. That experience is invaluable and often underestimated.

Muhammad is hungry, determined, and absolutely deserving of this shot. But there’s something about experiencing those championship rounds with everything on the line that changes a fighter.

What Does This Mean for UFC 304?

When I look at all the factors, Edwards’ superior resume gives him an edge, but not an insurmountable one. The champion has proven he can overcome adversity (just ask Usman about that fifth round), adapt to different styles, and execute under the brightest lights.

Muhammad has the tools to make this competitive and potentially pull off the upset. His pressure could be kryptonite to Edwards’ calculated approach if he can sustain it for five rounds.

What we’re looking at is a clash between a technical master and a relentless force – and those matchups often produce magic inside the octagon.

The Bigger Picture: Welterweight’s Future

This fight isn’t just about these two men. With Shavkat Rakhmonov lurking and Ian Machado Garry climbing the ranks, the winner emerges into a division with fresh challenges on the horizon.

Whether Edwards cements his legacy or Muhammad begins his championship chapter, welterweight’s future looks bright.

Don’t Miss This Grudge Match

Are you planning to catch UFC 304? This welterweight title fight has all the ingredients of a classic – unfinished business, contrasting styles, and championship implications. Share your predictions in the comments below or hit me up on social media with your thoughts on who takes this one.

Source: BBC Sport