Official Scorecards | UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2
The highly anticipated rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 delivered an electrifying performance, capturing the attention of MMA fans worldwide. The fight, which took place on July 20, 2024, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, was a testament to the skill, determination, and resilience of both fighters. In this blog, we will break down the official scorecards, analyze the key moments of the fight, and explore what this means for the future of the welterweight division.
Pre-Fight Hype and Background
Leon Edwards, the reigning welterweight champion, entered UFC 304 with a record of 22-3, riding a 10-fight winning streak. Known for his striking accuracy and defensive prowess, Edwards was determined to prove his dominance in the division. Belal Muhammad, with a record of 21-4, was coming off a series of impressive victories, showcasing his relentless pressure and well-rounded skill set. Their first encounter ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke, making this rematch highly anticipated.
Round-by-Round Breakdown
Round 1
The fight began with both fighters cautiously feeling each other out. Edwards utilized his reach advantage, landing crisp jabs and leg kicks. Muhammad, known for his forward pressure, tried to close the distance, but Edwards’ footwork kept him at bay. The round was relatively even, with Edwards slightly edging out Muhammad with his striking accuracy.
| Fighter | Significant Strikes | Takedowns | Control Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Edwards | 22 | 0 | 0:30 |
| Belal Muhammad | 18 | 0 | 0:15 |
Round 2
Muhammad came out aggressively in the second round, looking to take the fight to the ground. He managed to secure a takedown but was unable to keep Edwards down for long. Edwards reversed the position and landed a series of ground-and-pound strikes. The champion’s defensive grappling and striking from the bottom highlighted his versatility.
| Fighter | Significant Strikes | Takedowns | Control Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Edwards | 18 | 0 | 1:20 |
| Belal Muhammad | 15 | 1 | 0:45 |
Round 3
The third round saw both fighters trading blows in the center of the Octagon. Edwards’ precision striking was evident as he landed several combinations. Muhammad, however, showcased his toughness and continued to push forward. The round ended with an explosive exchange, with both fighters earning the respect of the fans and judges.
| Fighter | Significant Strikes | Takedowns | Control Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Edwards | 25 | 0 | 0:50 |
| Belal Muhammad | 20 | 0 | 0:10 |
Round 4
As the championship rounds began, fatigue started to set in for both fighters. Edwards maintained his composure, landing counterstrikes as Muhammad attempted to press the action. A key moment came when Edwards landed a head kick that staggered Muhammad, but he quickly recovered and continued to fight back.
| Fighter | Significant Strikes | Takedowns | Control Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Edwards | 20 | 0 | 0:40 |
| Belal Muhammad | 17 | 0 | 0:30 |
Round 5
The final round was a testament to the heart and determination of both fighters. Edwards aimed to seal the victory with his striking, while Muhammad left everything in the Octagon, attempting to secure a finish. The round ended with both fighters embracing, a sign of mutual respect after a hard-fought battle.
| Fighter | Significant Strikes | Takedowns | Control Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Edwards | 24 | 0 | 0:35 |
| Belal Muhammad | 19 | 0 | 0:25 |
Official Scorecards
The official scorecards reflected the closely contested nature of the fight:
| Judge | Score (Edwards) | Score (Muhammad) |
|---|---|---|
| Judge 1 | 48 | 47 |
| Judge 2 | 49 | 46 |
| Judge 3 | 48 | 47 |
Leon Edwards was declared the winner by unanimous decision, retaining his welterweight title and solidifying his status as one of the best in the division.
Key Takeaways
Leon Edwards’ Precision and Defense
Edwards’ performance showcased his exceptional striking accuracy and defensive capabilities. His ability to control the pace of the fight and land significant strikes from various angles kept Muhammad at bay throughout the contest.
Belal Muhammad’s Heart and Pressure
Despite the loss, Muhammad proved his toughness and relentless pressure. He pushed Edwards to the limit, showcasing his ability to compete with the best in the division. Muhammad’s performance earned him respect and likely sets him up for more high-profile fights in the future.
The Future of the Welterweight Division
With this victory, Edwards has firmly established himself as the top welterweight. Potential future matchups could include rematches with other top contenders or a highly anticipated bout against rising stars in the division. For Muhammad, his performance ensures that he remains a top contender, and fans can expect to see him back in the Octagon soon.
Conclusion
UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2 was a thrilling display of skill, heart, and determination from both fighters. The official scorecards reflected a closely contested battle, with Leon Edwards emerging as the victor. This fight will be remembered as one of the great welterweight contests, and it sets the stage for exciting future matchups in the division.
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