UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2, a highly anticipated event in the world of mixed martial arts, took place on July 27, 2024, at the newly inaugurated Co-op Live venue in Manchester, England. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first sporting event held at this state-of-the-art facility, setting the stage for an exciting night of fights.
The main event featured welterweight champion Leon Edwards defending his title against his long-time rival Belal Muhammad in a rematch that fans had been eagerly awaiting. The co-main event showcased interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall going head-to-head with No. 4 ranked Curtis Blaydes, a rematch two years in the making.
Fans tuned in for the Early Prelims, which kicked off at 6:15 PM ET, followed by the Prelims at 8 PM ET. The Main Card, featuring the most anticipated bouts of the evening, was available exclusively on ESPN+ PPV, starting at 10 PM ET.
Main Card Results
The Main Card was filled with intense competition and showcased the skills of some of the best fighters in the UFC.
Co-Main Event
Tom Aspinall faced Curtis Blaydes in a highly charged rematch. Aspinall showcased his striking prowess and finished Blaydes by TKO (strikes) just one minute into the first round, solidifying his position at the top of the heavyweight division.
Paddy Pimblett vs. King Green
In another thrilling matchup, Paddy Pimblett secured a victory against King Green via submission (triangle choke) at 3:22 of Round 1, demonstrating his grappling skills and finishing ability.
Gregory Rodrigues vs. Christian Leroy Duncan
Gregory Rodrigues delivered a strong performance against Christian Leroy Duncan, winning by unanimous decision with all judges scoring the bout 30-27 in favor of Rodrigues.
Arnold Allen vs. Giga Chikadze
Arnold Allen faced Giga Chikadze in a striking battle that opened the Main Card. Allen’s strategy paid off as he managed to wear down Chikadze, ultimately winning by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).
Nathaniel Wood vs. Daniel Pineda
Nathaniel Wood secured a unanimous decision victory against Daniel Pineda, with judges scoring the fight 29-27, 29-27, and 29-28, showcasing his effective striking and control throughout the bout.
Bruna Brasil vs. Molly McCann
Bruna Brasil delivered an impressive performance, defeating Molly McCann by unanimous decision with scores of 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28, further establishing her presence in the women’s division.
Preliminary Card Highlights
The Preliminary Card featured several exciting bouts, with fighters looking to make a name for themselves and climb the ranks.
Jake Hadley vs. Caolan Loughran
Jake Hadley showcased his skill set, winning by unanimous decision against Caolan Loughran, with judges scoring the fight 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28.
Muhammad Mokaev vs. Manel Kape
Muhammad Mokaev also earned a unanimous decision victory over Manel Kape, with scores of 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27, solidifying his status as a rising star in the flyweight division.
Oban Elliott vs. Preston Parsons
Oban Elliott continued the trend of unanimous decision victories, defeating Preston Parsons with scores of 29-28, 30-27, and 30-27.
Modestas Bukauskas vs. Marcin Prachnio
Modestas Bukauskas showcased his grappling skills, finishing Marcin Prachnio by submission (arm-triangle choke) at 3:12 of Round 3.
Sam Patterson vs. Kiefer Crosbie
Sam Patterson also secured a quick victory, submitting Kiefer Crosbie with an arm-triangle choke at 2:50 of Round 1.
Mick Parkin vs. Lukasz Brzeski
Mick Parkin made a statement with a knockout victory over Lukasz Brzeski at 3:23 of Round 1, showcasing his striking power.
Shauna Bannon vs. Alice Ardelean
In a closely contested bout, Shauna Bannon edged out Alice Ardelean by split decision, with the judges scoring the fight 28-29, 29-28, and 30-27.
Event Overview
UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2 was a landmark event, not only for the fighters involved but also for the city of Manchester, which welcomed the UFC with open arms. The fights delivered high-octane action, with several fighters making significant statements in their respective divisions.
As the UFC continues to grow in popularity, events like UFC 304 serve as a testament to the sport’s evolution and the ever-increasing talent pool within the organization. Fans and analysts alike are already looking forward to the next chapter in the ongoing saga of the UFC, with many fighters eager to prove themselves and secure their place among the elite in mixed martial arts.
