The welterweight crown sits firmly atop the head of Belal Muhammad. After dominating Leon Edwards for the overwhelming majority of 25 minutes, the title comes back across the Atlantic Ocean and the man wearing it has the perfect rebuttal to everyone that doubted his chances.
With the exception of a single round, Muhammad essentially did whatever he chose to Edwards. It was a far cry from their short notice 2021 meeting which saw “Rocky” largely control the fight until an eye poke forced an abrupt end.
Between then and UFC 304, Muhammad did nothing but win against some of the best the division had to offer. However, instead of being lauded for his accomplishments, many chose to overlook them in favor of his cringeworthy self-promotion and tendency to rely on the judges.
The UFC seemed to fall into this line of thinking as well when it passed on awarding Muhammad a title shot after his 10-fight unbeaten streak. Instead, it turned to Colby Covington , who hadn’t won against an active fighter since 2018.
Sure, he didn’t get a finish and compared his boxing skills to Canelo Alvarez immediately after winning the belt. But no matter what anybody has to say or how many boos are showered upon him, he’ll forever be known as a UFC champion.
Paddy Anchors Goalposts at UFC 304
When Paddy Pimblett spoke on the microphone after his UFC 304 showcase, his message was clear: he’s legit and haters should give him his respect. After quickly submitting a battle tested veteran like King Green, it’s hard to deny him his just due.
While a good number of pundits believed that Green would have a fairly easy day at the office (just check out our official predictions with the benefit of hindsight,) Pimblett pulled off his highest profile win and can expect a ranking for his troubles.
This should change the narrative that has surrounded the brash Englishman ever since he made his way over from Cage Warriors. Even with his talents on the ground and power in his hands, a controversial split decision over Jared Gordon gave critics all the fuel needed to dismiss him as a beneficiary of the UFC’s marketing machine.
Pimblett shrewdly recognized what the most stubborn of detractors would say. They’d point to the mileage that Green has accrued in his lengthy 48-fight record as the reason he got his hand raised. “Are you going to move the goalposts again?” he said to the audience.
Not this time. For now, it’s time to accept that Paddy could be a “Baddy” after all.
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