The UFC 288 line-up just got more exciting with a big late addition: Belal Muhammad, the No. 4-ranked Welterweight contender, will take on Gilbert Burns, the No. 5-ranked contender, in a five-round non-title co-main event in Newark, New Jersey on May 8, 2023. This announcement was made by the promotion on April 22, 2023, generating a lot of buzz among MMA fans.
This new co-main event was arranged after the original bout between Lightweight contenders Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush was cancelled due to an injury sustained by Oliveira. Dana White, the President of the UFC, promptly announced a new fight would be arranged for the card at UFC Kansas City on April 15, 2023.
Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns are both looking to challenge for UFC gold, with Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards from England currently holding the strap. Despite this, the impression Dana White has given is that Colby Covington is seen as the next likely challenger despite major inactivity and having already had two attempts. Burns is now on a 2 fight winning streak, most recently defeating Jorge Masvidal at UFC 288 via unanimous decision on April 8, 2023. Meanwhile, Muhammad is hoping to maintain his unbeaten run of ten fights, with the only bump in the road being a no contest against the now champ Edwards.
Don’t miss this epic showdown at UFC 288 and stay tuned for more updates on these talented fighters.
