Few people have more insight into the UFC 288 co-main event than Vicente Luque.
Not only is Luke a close friend and longtime sparring partner of Gilbert Burns — they’ve trained together since 2014 — but he’s fought Bilal Muhammad on two occasions, winning by a first-round knockout at UFC 205 before knocking down a referee in five rounds. “Remember the name” in the UFC rematch on ESPN 34. Luque expects a competitive fight between the two on Saturday but sees Burns as the favourite.
“I’ve had five rounds with Bilal a year ago. He’s definitely evolved from our first fight. Besides throwing fast combinations, he moves well and has a good kick with his left leg, but he fights more for points. I see a clear advantage of ‘Durinho’ in the side Wrestling. He has a lot more pressing, mainly on the floor, plus amazing cardio. In terms of punching, I see it as more equal. ‘Durinho’ has evolved a lot and has more knockout power.
“I really don’t see the fight going into the fifth round. My bet is Durinho’s cross serve in the third.”
Currently at No. 10 in the UFC’s welterweight rankings, Luque confirmed his recently reported bout with Rafael dos Anjos on July 15. “The Silent Assassin” will be looking to end a two-game skid after falling to Muhammed and Jeff Neal on back-to-back outings.
Lockie said: “Rafael is one of the most famous fighters out there. This guy was a lightweight champion, a welterweight contender. He really fought the best in two weight classes. To write your name among the best you have to face the best. Rafael is in a great place yet [moving his camp to] new union.
“I just fought five rounds at once against Bilal, and I loved that experience. I’m sure a five-round fight with RDA will be a gift to the fans.”