UFC CEO Dana White wanted the UFC 300 lineup to be so “insane” that even the most jaded fight fans would “lose their minds” over the star power attached to last April’s landmark pay-per-view (PPV) event.
Which is why the “disrespected” Belal Muhammad was left on the sidelines.
That’s according to reigning welterweight champion Leon Edwards, who volunteered to headline the UFC 300 fight card when Conor McGregor became unavailable, a spot that eventually went to light heavyweight titleholder Alex Pereira.
“I said his name to the UFC — I actually said to the UFC: ‘What about Belal?’ They said he’s not a big enough name to headline UFC 300,” Edwards told NY Post. “And I was like, fair enough. That’s the reason why we’re here now in Manchester. I feel like he’s definitely not a big enough star to headline 300. But for me, I wanted to fight, and I was like, ‘Okay, what about this guy talking loads of s—t, and everyone thinks he deserves a title shot. Why not get him?’ But like I said, UFC wasn’t on it.”
Edwards, 32, will instead headline the UFC 304 fight card, locked and loaded for this Sat. night (July 27, 2024) at Co-op Live in Manchester, England. “Rocky” and “Remember the Name” battled to a “No Contest” at UFC Vegas 21 after an errant eye poke brought a halt to the action.
And gave birth to some amazing memes.
“Regarding our first encounter, everyone witnessed how it unfolded,” stated Edwards. “I distinctly recall his sluggishness and lack of strength during our clinches. I cannot disregard those aspects. However, when it comes to the technical aspects, I am approaching this upcoming fight as an entirely fresh battle. I am analyzing and evaluating Belal’s current state as a 36-year-old who has not competed in over a year. Undoubtedly, he has made progress since our previous bout, but I firmly believe that I am the superior mixed martial artist overall. My athleticism surpasses his.”
This weekend in Manchester will reveal the answer.
Since their initial encounter, Edwards (22-3, 1 NC) has gone on to win four consecutive matches and secure the division title. Meanwhile, Muhammad (23-3, 1 NC) has maintained an impeccable record of 5-0 since their first meeting, including a victory over Gilbert Burns at UFC 288.
For the rest of the UFC 304 fight card and PPV lineup click here.
