Gabriel Bonfim defeated former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision on June 6, 2026, at UFC Fight Night from the Meta APEX in Las Vegas [1, 2]. All three judges scored the fight 50-45 in favor of Bonfim, who dominated every round [2].
The bout headlined UFC Vegas 118, with the main card starting around 8 p.m. ET and streamed on Paramount+ [1, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Bonfim, ranked No. 11, extended his winning streak to four fights with the victory [1, 5, 2]. Muhammad, who won the welterweight title in 2024 by defeating Leon Edwards, has now lost three consecutive bouts, dropping his professional record to 24-6-1 [1, 5, 2].
Bonfim’s size, speed, and precise striking, particularly his effective calf kicks and pressure, were key to controlling the fight and preventing Muhammad from imposing his usual wrestling-based style [2]. Muhammad himself acknowledged the challenge, saying, "I don't think it's at my expense. It's at Bonfim's expense. I'm the wrong guy to fight. I'm excited to show the world that I'm still the best. I'm still at the top. I have to go out there and show him." [1]
Bonfim had predicted his style would disrupt Muhammad’s rhythm. He said, "Belal messes up other fighters and their rhythm. My kicking, movement and quick jabs are key. If he decides to take me down, I can submit him. I will stand up if I need to. I will pressure him every moment." [1]
The Fight of the Night award went to Brendan Allen versus Edmen Shahbazyan, while Iwo Baraniewski and Édgar Cháirez earned Performance of the Night bonuses at the event [2].
This fight followed a significant clash in November 2025 when Bonfim defeated Randy Brown and Muhammad lost to Ian Machado Garry [3, 4, 6]. Their June 6 matchup confirmed Bonfim’s rise and Muhammad’s ongoing struggles inside the Octagon.
The UFC and both fighters are expected to confirm next matchups in the coming weeks as Bonfim aims to move closer to a top-five welterweight ranking.
