Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad are potentially set for a rematch following a recent hint from UFC commentator Jon Anik, suggesting a showdown in Manchester, England at UFC 304 in July. Anik’s social media post, where he tagged Belal Muhammad’s handle while announcing his flight to Manchester, has fueled speculation about the rematch taking place.
The first encounter between Edwards and Muhammad took place in March 2021 at a UFC Fight Night event held at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. Both fighters entered the bout with impressive records of 18 wins and 3 defeats each. The fight came to an abrupt halt just 18 seconds into the second round due to an accidental eye poke from Leon Edwards, resulting in a no contest.
Belal Muhammad understandably expressed frustration at the outcome, given the anticlimactic nature of the fight’s conclusion. Since then, Muhammad has continued to build his resume with notable victories over Demian Maia, Stephen Thompson, Vicente Luque, Sean Brady, and Gilbert Burns.
On the other hand, Leon Edwards has climbed the welterweight ranks and solidified himself as a top contender. He claimed the welterweight title after defeating Kamaru Usman and went on to defend it against Nate Diaz, Kamaru Usman (in a rubber match), and Colby Covington.
Flight booked for Manchester, England. See you there, @bullyb170.
— Jon Anik (@Jon_Anik) May 14, 2024
Both fighters have expressed their desire for a rematch, especially given the inconclusive nature of their first bout. Belal Muhammad has been vocal about his pursuit of a UFC welterweight title shot and sees a rematch with Edwards as a crucial step towards that goal.
If the rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad indeed materializes at UFC 304 in Manchester, England, it would likely attract significant attention from fans and the combat sports community. With both fighters aiming to make their mark in the welterweight division, this potential rematch promises to be an exciting and pivotal moment in their respective careers.
