Gabriel Bonfim is not looking for a close decision when he faces former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad this weekend. The rising Brazilian contender wants to make a statement, and he believes the quickest way to do that is by finishing Muhammad as early as possible.
Read my full prediction for the fight here.
Speaking to reporters at the UFC Vegas 118 Media, Bonfim said a dominant victory over Muhammad could open the door to bigger opportunities in the stacked welterweight division. When asked what it would take to earn a major matchup next, Bonfim made his intentions clear.
“I think a dominant win against Muhammad, a knockout, you know, as early as possible. I think that puts me up there for the next my next performance.”
Bonfim also suggested the timing may be ideal to face Muhammad, noting that the former champion is coming off back-to-back defeats.
Bonfim enters the bout riding a four-fight winning streak since suffering the only loss of his professional career against Nicolas Dalby. The 27-year-old believes he has matured significantly since that setback, particularly when it comes to controlling his emotions inside the Octagon.
Despite Muhammad’s reputation as one of the division’s most relentless wrestlers, Bonfim is confident he can handle the challenge. He expects the former champion to secure takedowns but plans to repeatedly work his way back to his feet and force Muhammad into exhausting exchanges.