The UFC 288 card is quickly coming to fruition and with it, the matchup between Belal Muhammad (+126) and Gilbert Burns (-162). This fight will be sure to draw attention as both fighters come into this bout with something to prove.
Belal Muhammad is a rising star in the UFC. After four impressive wins in his last five fights, he has earned himself a spot on the main card of a major pay-per-view. He is an excellent striker who likes to keep the pressure on his opponents by consistently moving forward and throwing strikes from multiple angles. His ability to stay busy in exchanges makes him dangerous for any fighter that steps inside of the octagon against him. While he does have some ground experience, much of his success comes from staying off of the canvas when possible.
Rundown of statistical chances of victory for Muhammad vs Burns:
- Muhammad’s win percentage: 44%
- Burns’ win percentage: 56%
- Muhammad’s average odds: +126
- Burns’ average odds: -162
- Muhammad’s moneyline: +126
- Burns’ moneyline: -162
- Muhammad’s implied win probability: 44.4%
- Burns’ implied win probability: 61.7%
Standing across from Belal will be Gilbert Burns who enters this fight as one of MMA’s top ranked grapplers at welterweight. In addition to possessing excellent wrestling skills, Gilbert also possesses great conditioning which allows him to outlast many opponents throughout all rounds if necessary. When standing he won’t be outclassed either as he has good movement and striking ability making him difficult for anyone willing trade blows with him on their feet. His aggressive style often leads him right into takedowns or other grappling opportunities where he excels greatly compared most fighters at welterweight division.
Given each fighters individual strengths I believe that this matchup will favor Gilbert Burns slightly even though Belal Muhammad possess powerful striking skills which can end any contest anytime within cage walls but The Brazilian’s wide variety of techniques paired with sound strategy should make it too much for Belal Muhammad handle here ,he should look carefully not only physical attributes but also mental tactics which can play huge role during match .In conclusion my pick would have go towards Gilbert Burns (-162) winning this fight over Belal Muhammad (+126).
