UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Muhammad betting odds, preview, and pick
Belal Muhammad poses on the scale during his weigh-in at UFC APEX. (Photo by Diego Ribas/PxImages/Icon Sportswire)
March 8th, 2021
Leon Edwards returns to the octagon against the upset-minded Belal Muhammad in the main event of UFC Fight Night on March 13.
We have the only preview and pick you'll need for this eagerly anticipated clash.
Edwards is looking to make up for lost time
Edwards was on the rise in the welterweight division, but direct and indirect incidents related to COVID-19 had him on the shelf for over a year. His original opponent, the recently retired Khamzat Chimaev, was replaced by Muhammad less than a month ago.
Since losing to Kamaru Usman in 2015, Edwards has won eight in a row against progressively stronger opposition. The strength of his performances had him on the inside track for a title shot before getting sidelined. In his last win against Rafael dos Anjos, Edwards was masterful in victory over his veteran foe.
Though he doesn’t do anything spectacularly, he’s such a well-rounded fighter that he can put on a striking clinic or smother his opponents on the mat. With a strong chin and excellent defense, Edwards is one of the division’s most versatile fighters.
Edwards vs. Muhammad tale of the tape
| Leon Edwards | ----- | Belal Muhammad |
|---|
18-3 | Record | 18-3 |
29 | Age | 32 |
6'2" | Height | 5'11" |
74" | Reach | 72" |
5-0 | Last 5 Fights | 4-1 |
Striking accuracy | Key Intangibles | Volume striking |
The late sub is fixing for an upset
The big question is if Edwards’ layoff will slow him down enough for late-sub Muhammad to catch him. In any other circumstance, this is a step-up too high for Muhammad, as the class between them is apparent.
Yet, his aggressive striking combined with Edwards’ potential rust gives him an opportunity to spring an upset. While he absorbs a lot of strikes, his takedown defense all but ensures Edwards is going to have to go toe-to-toe with him.
A refreshed Edwards will win by decision
Unless Edwards has become a shell of his former self due to his inactivity, past history suggests he’ll be too much for Muhammad to handle.
Muhammad will try and press Edwards early in hopes of catching him before he gets his motor running, but the rested and motivated contender won’t be bamboozled by the late sub's telegraphed offense.
Edwards will get the rounds in, and will win a spirited, one-sided decision.
MMA pick: Edwards
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