UFC 288 Results: Belal Muhammad Vs. Gilbert Burns Full Fight & Winner

The upcoming fight between Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns is highly significant for the welterweight division, second only to a championship bout.

The victor of this matchup will likely earn a shot at the divisional title, facing off against the winner of the Leon Edwards versus Colby Covington showdown scheduled for later in the year. Belal Muhammad vs. Gilbert Burns takes place on May 6, 2023, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.



UFC 288: Belal Muhammad Vs. Gilbert Burns Full Fight & Highlights

ROUND 1: The co-main event is upon us, and the stakes couldn't be higher for these two fighters. With the winner being promised a shot at the welterweight title after Colby Covington, this is a pivotal moment for both Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad. The seasoned referee, Keith Peterson, is the man in charge of keeping things fair and safe inside the Octagon. As they come together for the traditional touch of gloves, the tension in the arena is palpable.

Burns fires off a leg kick to kick things off, but Muhammad is already showing his versatility with some swift stance changes. Muhammad tries a high kick, but Burns defends it well. However, Muhammad counters with a sharp left that finds its mark, followed by another that Burns just barely manages to avoid. The two warriors trade blows in the center of the cage, with Muhammad landing a thudding body kick.



In a sudden burst of energy, Burns shoots for a takedown, but Muhammad springs back to his feet almost immediately. Muhammad continues to be the aggressor, landing yet another body kick. But Burns isn't backing down, and he keeps pressing forward. Muhammad connects with a well-timed left hand that rocks Burns, causing him to stumble back. And then, just as Burns seems to be regaining his balance, Muhammad lands a blocked head kick that sends him reeling once again.

Through it all, Muhammad remains calm and patient, picking his shots carefully and not overextending himself. The same can be said of Burns, who despite being rocked a few times, refuses to give up ground.

ROUND 2: What a sensational opening round for Muhammad. He continues to work those body kicks, which are causing Burns some serious problems. Burns tries to counter with a straight right, but Muhammad is remaining composed and measured, not rushing in recklessly. However, Burns is not deterred and lands a good combination. Muhammad's forward pressure is relentless, though, and he keeps coming forward, hunting for the finish. Burns tries to keep him at bay with a low kick. Muhammad tries to flurry forward, but misses the mark. It's a very close and competitive round, with both men looking to gain the upper hand.



ROUND 3: It wouldn't come as a surprise if the scorecards are even at 19-19 going into the third round, as the second round could have gone either way. Muhammad's corner is urging him to be more aggressive. The third round starts off slow, eliciting some boos from the crowd. Muhammad swings a wide right that misses the mark. Burns charges in, but fails to land any significant strikes. Muhammad throws out a probing right hand. He lands a beautifully executed kick to the body, which has been his most consistent and effective weapon. Burns connects with a solid right hand of his own. It appears that something might be bothering Burns, as his corner keeps imploring him to "overcome" it. Perhaps he is dealing with an injury? While it hasn't been a Fight of the Year contender thus far, Muhammad takes this round by being the more active fighter.

ROUND 4: The corner of Burns is displaying an air of trepidation, as the Brazilian appears to be disoriented and unaware that Round 2 is over. Coach Henri Hooft implies that Burns' left arm or shoulder is injured, compelling him to "overcome" the obstacle. Muhammad persists in his unwavering focus on the body, lashing out with an additional forceful kick. Burns retaliates with a couple of right hands. However, Muhammad proves unyielding and lands another brutal body kick. Burns seeks a high kick, yet it is easily blocked.

Muhammad, with his unyielding forward pressure, relentlessly advances on Burns. Burns lands a massive counter right hand, though Muhammad simply brushes it off. Despite the blow, Burns winces in excruciating pain as something is seriously wrong with his left shoulder. It appears that Muhammad has discerned this and is focusing much of his offense on that side. Burns attempts a low kick, and Muhammad continues to batter his injured shoulder with kicks. Yet, Muhammad remains unfazed, eating another right hand from Burns and continuing to apply pressure.

ROUND 5: It's clear that this bout has been entirely dominated by Belal Muhammad, with the scorecard either showing a decisive 4-0 or a still-advantageous 3-1 in his favor. It's highly likely that Burns would require a stoppage in this final round to turn the tide. However, he seems visibly disheartened and frustrated, making it doubtful that he will be able to produce a miraculous turnaround. Burns struggles mightily with a failed takedown attempt, while Muhammad appears fresh and confident despite the last-minute nature of this contest.

Muhammad unleashes yet another brutal kick to the body, and it appears to have landed with vicious intent. We're halfway through the round, and Burns is looking increasingly sluggish. In desperation, Burns lunges inside with a pair of right hands, but he only earns a counter shot in return. Muhammad unleashes a flurry of punches, although none of them find their mark. Nonetheless, Muhammad maintains an impressive level of activity throughout the round, further cementing his dominance. This is undoubtedly a fantastic showing by Muhammad, and he should now be riding a ten-fight undefeated streak. The judges will ultimately have the final say, though.

UFC 288: Belal Muhammad Vs. Gilbert Burns Fight Winner

WINNER: Belal Muhammad via Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 49–46, 49–46)

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