The last time the UFC graced Manchester, a British champion captivated a boisterous crowd, with Michael Bisping headlining at Manchester Arena by successfully defending his middleweight title against long-time rival Dan Henderson in the main event of UFC 204.
Now, nearly eight years later, the UFC is set to return to the city known for Oasis and Premier League giants Manchester City and Manchester United, with a pay-per-view event at Co-op Live. This time, two British champions aim to emulate Bisping’s success by defending their titles on home soil.
With a stacked undercard featuring several top emerging talents from the United Kingdom and Ireland, Saturday’s pay-per-view is poised to deliver an electrifying night of action inside the Octagon.
Here’s a closer look at what’s on tap at UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2.
Date:Â Saturday, 07.27.2024
Venue:Â Co-op Live, Manchester, England
U.S. Broadcast:Â Pay-Per-View
Don't miss a moment of UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2, live from Co-Op Live in Manchester, England. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, while the main card kicks off live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT.
Main Event
Welterweight Title Bout: Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad
In the main event, British welterweight champion Leon Edwards will defend his title in a rematch against Belal Muhammad. Edwards aims to solidify his reign on home soil, while Muhammad seeks redemption and championship gold.
Co-Main Event
Interim Heavyweight Title Bout: Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes
The co-main event features a clash for the interim heavyweight title as Tom Aspinall takes on Curtis Blaydes. Aspinall, the hometown favorite, looks to capture interim gold against the formidable Blaydes in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown.
Other Main Card Matches
King Green vs. Paddy Pimblett
Fan favorite Paddy Pimblett will square off against King Green in what is expected to be a thrilling lightweight contest. Pimblett, known for his charismatic personality and exciting fighting style, will look to continue his rise in the UFC ranks.
Christian Leroy Duncan vs. Gregory Rodrigues
Middleweight contenders Christian Leroy Duncan and Gregory Rodrigues are set to battle it out, with both fighters aiming to break into the top tier of their division.
Arnold Allen vs. Giga Chikadze
In a featherweight bout, Arnold Allen will face Giga Chikadze. Allen, a rising star from the UK, seeks to make a statement against the dangerous striker Chikadze.
Preliminary Matches
Nathaniel Wood vs. Daniel Pineda
Bantamweight standout Nathaniel Wood takes on Daniel Pineda, looking to impress the home crowd with a dominant performance.
Molly McCann vs. Bruna Brasil
Flyweight Molly McCann will face Bruna Brasil in a bout that promises fireworks. McCann, another local favorite, is known for her relentless pace and aggressive style.
Jake Hadley vs. Caolan Loughran
In the flyweight division, Jake Hadley clashes with Caolan Loughran. Hadley aims to showcase his grappling skills against the tough Irishman Loughran.
Modestas Bukauskas vs. Marcin Prachnio
Light heavyweights Modestas Bukauskas and Marcin Prachnio will go head-to-head, with both fighters eager to climb the rankings.
Oban Elliott vs. Preston Parsons
Welterweights Oban Elliott and Preston Parsons are set to deliver an action-packed bout, with both fighters looking to make their mark.
Muhammad Mokaev vs. Manel Kape
In a highly anticipated flyweight bout, Muhammad Mokaev will face Manel Kape. Mokaev, a rising prospect, aims to continue his undefeated streak against the experienced Kape.
Sam Patterson vs. Kiefer Crosbie
Lightweights Sam Patterson and Kiefer Crosbie will battle it out, with both fighters seeking to advance their UFC careers.
Mick Parkin vs. Lukasz Brzeski
Heavyweights Mick Parkin and Lukasz Brzeski will collide, promising a bout filled with heavy-hitting action.
Shauna Bannon vs. Alice Ardelean
Women's flyweight contenders Shauna Bannon and Alice Ardelean will open the event, aiming to kick off the night with a strong performance.