Belal Muhammad has been unsuccessful in his attempt to get a rematch with Leon Edwards. After a ‘no contest’ last time around, it seems that Belal will have to wait even longer for his fight.
The UFC announced on March 30 that Nate Diaz will return against Leon Edwards at UFC 262. It will be the first-ever non-title five-round co-main event in the promotion’s history.
As things stand, Diaz will be getting a big fight for his return and Edwards will be getting a fight that he’s desired. Belal however, is left unfulfilled after desiring a chance to ‘run it back’ with Edwards. This has left fans and experts like Damon Martin, very disappointed.
One person I do feel bad for in this situation is @bullyb170. Hopefully the UFC rewards him with a higher ranked opponent for his next fight. There are definitely options out there for him. #UFC
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) March 31, 2021
Although the fight has been confirmed, Belal still hasn’t lost heart. In a recent Twitter post captioned “I’ll stay ready,” Belal has expressed his availability to fight Edwards should things change.
Moreover, it wouldn’t be the first time Muhammad would be stepping in to replace Edwards’ opponent. When the pair first met in the main event of UFC Vegas 21 on March 13, Belal had filled in for Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev had been struggling with the prolonging effects of COVID 19 at the time.
Read More: Khamzat Chimaev working on his Health Improvement
What’s next for Belal Muhammad?
The fight between Belal and Edwards was going normally up until the second round. Whilst Edwards had some good shots, Belal seemed confident in his stance and had the answers for everything thrown at him. With his immense cardio work, many felt that Belal would clutch the bout in the later rounds.
Leon Edwards of Jamaica battles Bulal Muhammad in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX. (Credits: Getty Images)
However, a freak accident in the second round saw the fight ended in a ‘no contest.’ Whilst attempting to grab onto Muhammad, Edwards accidentally ended up poking him in the eye. This left Muhammad with a brutal eye injury and the referees immediately ended the fight. A draw was recorded for both fighters.
Muhammad has since then, been pushing for a rematch. Edwards however, has had his eyes set on a different prize. While Edwards has gotten the fight of his choice, Belal has been left hanging without a fight. Even though fans agree that Belal deserves a bigger opponent as well, the UFC could have a different plan up their sleeves.
Read More: Leon Edwards Has No Title Shot Except Belal Muhammad Rematch
