As UFC 288 approaches, Belal Muhammad is confident that Gilbert Burns will struggle to handle his fighting style. Muhammad, who boasts a record of 22-3 in overall MMA and 13-3 in UFC, is scheduled to go head-to-head with Burns. Who stands at 22-5 MMA and 15-5 UFC, in a five-round co-main event on May 6 at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.
Having remained undefeated in his last nine fights, Belal has defeated numerous specialists of their respective classes, and he believes his adaptability to different fighting styles will disorient Burns.
Belal Muhammad: Gilbert Burns 'doesn't know what I'm gonna bring to the table' at #UFC288 https://t.co/sOz7NhvHhY
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) April 27, 2023
“I think that matchup, stylistic-wise, like I fought the best grappler in the division with Demian Maia, I fought the best striker in the division with ‘Wonderboy,’ I fought the guy who knocked me out and his training partner in Luque, and I beat Luque and I fought the new up-and-coming hot star, strongest guy in the division in Sean Brady,” Muhammad said on “The Schaub Show.” “I fought every single style, and I don’t think Gilbert’s fought anybody like me.”
Muhammad had been advocating for a title shot, but his aspirations were dashed when UFC president Dana White anointed Colby Covington as the top contender. Despite his dissatisfaction with getting overlooked, Muhammad perceived a sense of validation from the audience.
Gilbert Burns gives his take on Belal Muhammad
With UFC 288’s co-main event swiftly approaching, Gilbert Burns has issued a strong warning to Belal. Who he’ll face off against on May 6th.
Initially, Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dairush were scheduled to co-headline UFC 288. But Oliveira unfortunately had to withdraw due to an injury.
The UFC added a short-notice welterweight title eliminator between Muhammad and Burns as a replacement. It’s anticipated that the victor will compete for the welterweight championship in the future.
In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Burns stated that he understands he must make a statement to secure his shot at the belt, and he intends to do just that.
“Because now I can get a finish,” Burns said. “If I want to solidify myself as the No. 1 contender, I’ve got to take this guy out. I’ve been asking for five rounds, even with the Chimaev fight, with the Jorge (Masvidal) fight, with the Neil Magny fight I asked for five rounds. They didn’t give it to me. But this time he asked, as well. So when he asked for it, I said now we’re doing five rounds.”
What is your pick for the welterweight co-main event featuring Gilbert and Belal?
