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Debate

Is Belal Muhammad truly a threat to Leon Edwards' title, or just another stepping stone?

Current welterweight champion Leon Edwards is back in action at UFC 304, which is only a week away. ‘Rocky’ will defend his title against an in-form Belal Muhammad in a highly anticipated clash. Both fighters are locked in and will look to put up a show for the fans. Edwards’ rise to the top of the division is a source of inspiration to many youngsters out there.

However, his opponent ‘Remember the Name’ has earned his spot as the number one contender in the division. As the fans eagerly await the clash, Edwards’ coach points out his biggest advantage against Muhammad.

Leon Edwards’ wrestling skills brought into light by his coach

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Leon Edwards knows that his next fight at UFC 304 will be wrestling heavy and he seems to be prepared for it. ‘Rocky’ has roped in famous coach Kamby Banger to help him fine-tune his wrestling skills. Before the clash, UFC released a video on YouTube where Banger shared his opinion on Edwards. According to the coach, Edwards is one of the most complete fighters in the division, and his wrestling is second to none. “He’s very talented. His IQ in the sport just in wrestling alone,” Banger said.

He further pointed out that ‘Rocky’ can definitely upset the challenger ‘Remember the Name’, who is known for his wrestling and is currently on a dream run. According to coach Banger, Belal might just be in for a surprise at UFC 304. “The way he (Edwards) breaks positions down. He’s adaptable. He isn’t specialized in one field he’s good at everything. In his wrestling game, he’s good. His striking speaks for itself. I know everyone’s probably expecting Belal to come out and wrestle but Leon’s proven that he is able to wrestle,” Banger added.

Not only Edwards but his challenger is also up for the fight. Belal recently appeared for a chat at the ‘Weighing In’ podcast and seemed confident in his preparation. The 36-year-old claimed that he might be the toughest fighter Edwards has ever faced in his career.

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What’s your perspective on:

Is Belal Muhammad truly a threat to Leon Edwards' title, or just another stepping stone?

Have an interesting take?

Belal Muhammad looking to dethrone Leon Edwards at UFC 304

Belal Muhammad and Leon Edwards locked horns previously at UFC Fight Night in the year 2021. The highly technical fight ended as a no-contest after an accidental eye poke by Edwards forced the judges to stop the fight. Belal will now have the opportunity to avenge that and go for the title at UFC 304. The veteran is unbeaten in his last five fights and is high on confidence. While speaking to Josh Thomson on his podcast, he said, “I hope he comes out trying to take me down. I hope he comes out trying to wrestle.” 

The number one contender then issued a warning to the champion as well. Muhammad feels he has all the skill set to defeat the current welterweight champion. “I’m telling you I am levels above him everywhere. Even when people tell me that the only way I can beat him is laying and praying. I’m telling you I can out-strike him. I could knock him out. The way that I see this fight going, he’s never fought anybody like me,” Belal said.

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In most of his fights, Edwards has always entered the Octagon as an underdog. However, the 32-year-old champion has almost always proven everyone wrong. ‘Rocky’ and his team are confident about his skills and feel he can match up to Muhammad. But can he do it? Who do you think will win the fight between the two? Let us know in the comments below.