We asked AI to predict the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad 2 (And it gave a perfect reply)
The Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad rematch will see the UK's Edwards put his UFC welterweight championship at stake against America's Muhammad. Their fight will headline UFC 304 at the Co-op Live in Manchester, England, on July 27, 2024. Google's AI Gemini has predicted who's likelier to win their upcoming matchup.
They previously clashed at UFC Vegas 21 (March 2021) in a non-title bout. It ended in an NC (No Contest) in round two after an eye poke from Edwards incapacitated Muhammad.
Google's AI Gemini suggested that Leon Edwards would likely defeat Belal Muhammad in their rematch at UFC 304. It acknowledged Muhammad as a challenging opponent with good striking and wrestling. Nevertheless, it feels Edwards boasts notable advantages such as his title fight experience, physical superiority, and better striking.
It pointed out that the champion has proven his mettle by successfully adapting to different styles of opponents and operating under pressure. 'Rocky's' striking, especially his head kick and counter-punching abilities, were praised. Besides, the prediction entailed that Edwards usually has the greater reach and overall size in his matchups, giving him the advantage in physical attributes.
Moreover, it explained that various elements such as Muhammad's cardio and early aggression, Edwards' fight IQ, and miscellaneous variables could impact the Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad rematch.
It believes Muhammad could take the lead by utilizing his wrestling in order to control the pace and outpoint the champion in the early rounds. Muhammad's cardio and high pace are viewed as significant factors that could benefit him, particularly if they go the five-round distance.
On the other hand, it was highlighted that it's paramount for Edwards to dictate the tempo and range, landing significant strikes and staving off Muhammad's takedowns. It was further implied that miscellaneous factors such as luck, injuries, unanticipated gameplans, etc., could considerably alter a given MMA matchup's result.
In conclusion, the prediction signaled that Muhammad's resilience and toughness notwithstanding, Edwards' physicality, striking, and championship experience would probably help him win. Nevertheless, it alluded to the sport's unpredictability, insinuating that no prediction is foolproof.
Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad 2: 'Rocky' shares decisive UFC 304 prediction
Heading into their long-awaited second encounter, Belal Muhammad has vowed to dominantly defeat Leon Edwards and become the new UFC welterweight champion. 'Remember the Name' has consistently accused the British champion of avoiding him and even labeled him a "coward." Meanwhile, 'Rocky' is seemingly steadfast in his belief that he's the more skilled fighter.
The 'UFC 304 Countdown' episode offered fans a preview of the Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad rematch. It featured Edwards notably explaining that he's far better than Muhammad in all aspects -- including his mentality, understanding of MMA, and fight IQ. Edwards foresees a stoppage victory against the 36-year-old challenger.
The 32-year-old asserted that he's never lost an amateur or professional fight in his native UK. Edwards spoke about headlining UFC 304 in Manchester against his archrival, Belal Muhammad, and stated:
"This guy has been saying my name now for a long time. It's extra motivation to go out there and whoop him."
Watch Edwards' assessment below (24:49-26:00):