The much-anticipated rematch between Leon “Rocky” Edwards and Belal “Remember the Name” Muhammad headlined UFC 304, offering fight fans an unforgettable night of action. Following their controversial first fight, which ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke in March 2021, both fighters had a chance to settle the score.
Both Edwards and Muhammad came into this fight riding winning streaks, with Edwards having successfully defended his UFC welterweight title multiple times and Muhammad having firmly established himself as a top contender. Their collision in the Octagon promised fireworks, and UFC 304 did not disappoint.
The Build-Up
The build-up to Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 was electric. Edwards, the reigning welterweight champion, had been in top form, successfully defeating the likes of Kamaru Usman twice and performing masterful performances against Nate Diaz and Colby Covington. His incredible head-kick KO victory over Usman in their rematch cemented his status as one of the division’s all-time greats.
On the other hand, Muhammad had gone on a tear since his first fight with Edwards, winning multiple bouts and improving his striking and grappling. The Chicago native’s well-rounded game and high fight IQ made him a difficult opponent for anyone in the division. The tension leading up to this clash was palpable, with both fighters determined to prove who the better man was.
Round 1: A Strategic Opening
The fight began with both fighters carefully feeling each other out. Muhammad, known for his forward pressure, pushed the pace early, throwing sharp jabs and mixing in kicks to keep Edwards on the back foot. Ever the tactician, Edwards maintained his distance, utilizing his superior footwork and head movement to evade Muhammad’s attacks.
Despite Muhammad’s early aggression, Edwards landed the cleaner shots, countering effectively with precision. A hard left hook rocked Muhammad halfway through the round, but the durable challenger recovered quickly and shot for a takedown, which Edwards managed to stuff. The first round was competitive, but Edwards’ accuracy edged out the exchanges.
Round 2: Muhammad Pressures Forward
Muhammad came out in the second round determined to make a statement. He increased his volume of strikes, using his kicks to attack Edwards’ legs and body. The strategy worked as Edwards’ movement was slightly compromised after a few hard leg kicks.
Midway through the round, Muhammad landed a crisp combination that forced Edwards to retreat. Smelling blood, Muhammad pressed forward, clinching with Edwards against the cage and attempting to impose his grappling. However, Edwards’ defensive wrestling held up, and he managed to reverse the position, landing a few elbows in the clinch before the round ended.
The second round was close, with Muhammad’s pressure and activity likely earning him a favor on the scorecards.
Round 3: Edwards Regains Momentum
In the third round, Edwards made adjustments and began to utilize his lethal kicks. His body kicks slowed Muhammad’s forward pressure, and he again started to find his range with his hands. A well-timed head kick midway through the round barely missed its mark but sent a clear message to Muhammad that Edwards was still dangerous.
The welterweight champion also began to incorporate his wrestling, taking Muhammad down in the final minute of the round. Although Muhammad quickly got back to his feet, Edwards’ control in the clinch and his ability to land short shots in tight spaces allowed him to regain the momentum.
Round 4: Championship Rounds Test Both Fighters
As the championship rounds began, it was clear that both fighters were feeling the effects of the gruelling pace. Still pushing forward, Muhammad attempted to bring the fight into deeper waters where his cardio and relentless pace could give him the edge. However, Edwards’ fight IQ came into play once again. He picked his shots carefully, choosing to counter when Muhammad pressed forward recklessly.
In the fourth round, Edwards landed the cleanest strike of the fight — a powerful straight left hand that staggered Muhammad momentarily. Edwards followed up with a flurry of punches, but Muhammad’s toughness kept him in the fight.
Despite Edwards’ success on the feet, Muhammad managed to secure a late takedown, briefly controlling the champion on the ground. This back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats as the fight moved to the final round.
Round 5: A Dramatic Finish
The fifth and final round was a test of will for both fighters. Knowing he was ahead on the scorecards, Edwards fought cautiously, looking to counter Muhammad’s aggression. Sensing the urgency, Muhammad tried to push the pace and mix in more takedown attempts.
Muhammad attempted one last takedown in the final minute, but Edwards sprawled beautifully and scrambled to the top. From there, he landed some heavy ground-and-pound, sealing the deal. The final horn sounded, and both fighters were exhausted but knew they had delivered an incredible performance.
The Decision
After five hard-fought rounds, the judges decided, and Leon Edwards retained his welterweight title via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46). The champion’s precise striking, superior defence and ability to control the clinch exchanges had earned him the victory.
Despite the loss, Muhammad proved he was a legitimate contender in the division and gained even more respect from fans and fighters alike. He vowed to return stronger and continue his pursuit of the title.
What's Next?
With Edwards victorious, the welterweight division remains one of the UFC’s most exciting. Potential matchups against rising contenders or a trilogy about with Kamaru Usman could be on the horizon for the champion. The loss will be a learning experience for Muhammad, but his stock certainly hasn’t dropped. He will likely remain a top contender and could find himself back in the title picture with another win or two.
Ahmad Ashraf