B. Muhammad (left) faces D. Maia (right) in the UFC 263. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Damaged in the clash against Leon edwards, in March, Belal Muhammad asked and Ultimate responded. Seeking to advance in the welterweight division (up to 77kg), the fighter confirmed that he will share the octagon against the Brazilian veteran, Demian Maia, UFC 263, which has been confirmed for June 12th and the location has not yet been defined. The North American announced the news on his social networks.
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“Onward and to the top. You have to beat a legend to be a legend. Muhammad against Maia on June 12th,” wrote Muhammad, in his account on Instagram.
Coming from a controversial clash, in which he ended up injured by a finger punch in the eye applied by Leon edwards, which resulted in a 'I didn't answer', Belal received a new chance to further confirm himself in the welterweight elite. If the veteran wins, the North American (13th) could occupy eighth place, which currently belongs to the Brazilian.
Without fighting for over a year, Maia hasn't stepped into the octagon since the tough defeat he suffered against Gilbert Durinho, in the last event held in Brazil since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. In his last fight under his contract, the athlete may say goodbye to Ultimate after the show on June 12th.
Former UFC middleweight (up to 83,9kg) and welterweight title challenger, Demian became known worldwide for being one of the best examples of the transition from jiu-jitsu to MMA. Specialist in the 'gentle art', the São Paulo native currently has 14 submissions in 28 victories as a professional in the sport.
At 43 years old, Maia, since last season, has made no secret of the fact that she will officially retire from mixed martial arts soon. Thus, the clash against Belal, in addition to confirming his departure from Ultimate, could lead to the retirement of the Brazilian, who has had 38 professional fights (28 triumphs and 10 setbacks).
Dreaming of the welterweight belt, Muhammad, 32, is heading to his 23rd fight in the sport. Today, the North American has 18 wins, three losses and one fight without result.
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