Eight years after Michael Bisping successfully defended his title against Dan Henderson in Manchester, the UFC is returning to this iconic city. Manchester will host UFC 304 at Co-op Live. This time, two British champions will step into the Octagon, aiming to defend their titles in front of a passionate home crowd and recreate the excitement of that memorable night as Leon Edwards defends his middleweight title against Belal Muhammed and Tom Aspinall defends his heavyweight interim belt against Curtis Blaydes.
Main Event: Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad
In the main event, welterweight champion Leon Edwards faces off against Belal Muhammad for the second time, with the title on the line. Edwards, hailing from Birmingham, enters this fight with a remarkable 13-fight unbeaten streak. His last outing saw him dominate Colby Covington at UFC 296, securing a unanimous decision victory. Edwards has been a model of consistency and skill, his only blemish being a no-contest due to an eye poke against Muhammad in their first encounter in March 2021.
Belal Muhammad has been biding his time for this championship opportunity. Riding a 10-fight unbeaten streak, Muhammad has demonstrated relentless pace and conditioning, which he showcased in his unanimous decision victory over Gilbert Burns at UFC 288. Muhammad, who stepped in on short notice for their first bout, has unfinished business with Edwards and is determined to seize the title this time around.
Their initial clash left fans wanting more after an accidental eye poke halted the bout. This weekend, they will finally settle their rivalry in what promises to be an intense showdown.
Co-Main Event: Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes
The co-main event features a rematch between interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and Curtis Blaydes. Aspinall captured the interim title last November by defeating Sergei Pavlovich in the first round. With a 7-1 record in the UFC, Aspinall’s only setback was due to a knee injury in his first fight against Blaydes in 2022.
Blaydes, a fixture in the heavyweight division, rebounded from a loss to Pavlovich with a second-round stoppage of Jailton Almeida. This bout marks Blaydes’ first shot at a championship, and he is eager to prove his mettle against the dynamic and well-rounded Aspinall.
Their previous encounter ended prematurely due to Aspinall’s injury, making this rematch highly anticipated. Aspinall’s striking and grappling will be tested against Blaydes’ wrestling prowess, promising a thrilling fight from start to finish.
Featured Fight: Paddy Pimblett vs. Bobby Green
In a featured main card bout, Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett faces the seasoned Bobby Green. Pimblett, a fan favorite from Liverpool, has maintained a perfect 5-0 record in the UFC, showcasing his charisma and skills in each fight. Known for his entertaining walkouts and fighting style, Pimblett is looking to solidify his position with a win over the veteran Green.
Bobby Green, now known as King Green, has been in the UFC for over a decade. He is known for his street boxing style and willingness to engage in striking brawls. Green’s recent unanimous decision win over Jim Miller showcased his durability and technique, making him a formidable opponent for Pimblett.
This fight is a classic matchup of experience versus rising talent. Will Green’s veteran savvy outshine Pimblett’s youthful exuberance, or will the Scouser continue his winning streak?
Rollo’s Predictions
• Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad: Edwards’ over Muhammed by decision
• Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes: Aspinall’s KO win over Blaydes.
• Paddy Pimblett vs. Bobby Green: Pimblett submission over Green
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