UFC 304: Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad, Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes in Manchester
UFC 304 Heads to Manchester with Two Major Title Fights
The UFC is set to make a grand return to Manchester, England, for the first time since 2016, featuring two exciting title fights at UFC 304.
Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad: Welterweight Title Showdown
Welterweight champion Leon Edwards will defend his title against Belal Muhammad in the main event of UFC 304. Scheduled for July 27 at the Co-op Live arena, this marks Edwards' third title defense. The British fighter, known for his impressive skill set and resilience, will face Muhammad in a highly anticipated rematch. Their previous encounter in 2021 ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke.
Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes: Interim Heavyweight Championship Rematch
In the co-main event, Tom Aspinall will defend his interim heavyweight championship against Curtis Blaydes. This bout is a rematch of their 2022 clash in London, where Aspinall suffered a knee injury just 15 seconds into the fight. Aspinall, who hails from England, secured the interim title in November by finishing Sergei Pavlovich in a swift 69 seconds.
Dana White Confirms Blockbuster Fights
UFC CEO Dana White announced both title fights on Thursday, highlighting the significance of bringing such high-profile matchups to Manchester. Edwards, who fights out of England, has previously defended his title on home soil, winning against Kamaru Usman in 2023. Aspinall, with six first-round finishes in eight UFC appearances, has been pushing for a unification bout against Jon Jones. However, Jones is expected to face former champion Stipe Miocic later this year.
Leon Edwards' Meteoric Rise
Leon Edwards (22-3) has become a top pound-for-pound fighter, stunning the MMA world by knocking out Usman with a head kick in the final round of their 2022 bout in Salt Lake City. Edwards' most recent victory was a decision win over Colby Covington in December.
Belal Muhammad's Journey to the Title Shot
Belal Muhammad (23-3) has earned his shot at the welterweight title through consistent performances and an impressive record. His bout against Edwards will be an opportunity to settle unfinished business from their no-contest fight.
Tom Aspinall's Impressive UFC Career
Tom Aspinall (14-3) has quickly risen through the heavyweight ranks, winning the interim championship and establishing himself as a formidable contender. Despite the setback in his previous fight with Blaydes due to injury, Aspinall remains a dominant force in the division.
Curtis Blaydes' Path to Redemption
Curtis Blaydes (18-4) will look to solidify his position as a top heavyweight contender by avenging his previous fight with Aspinall. Blaydes has been a consistent performer in the heavyweight division and aims to capture the interim title in Manchester.
