UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards finally welcomes Colby Covington as the next in the line. The British champion initially firmly protested UFC President Dana White‘s decision to proclaim ‘Chaos’ as the No. 1 contender. Not only did he question the credentials of the American fighter but also specified his intent to not meet him in a fight. The welterweight champion has since softened his position after carefully weighing in all of his options.

However, this shift in attitude is affected after his preferred opponent, Jorge Masvidal, called quits on his career after failing to triumph over Gilbert Burns. In this see-saw of dynamics, Belal Muhammad remains the sole loser. The fighter, dubbed as the true title contender by some, might have to wait for longer for a much-coveted title opportunity. The business side of things became a separating factor where Covington’s fight offers ‘Rocky’ an opportunity to stockpile cash.

Leon Edwards understands the economics of fighting Colby Covington

Tim Simpson, the Brit fighter’s representative, told Ariel Helwani the champion factored in the variables before deciding upon his next challenger. The considerations ranged from economics, the degree of the fight, and the preference of the UFC. Covington checked all the boxes.

He said, “You’ve got Gilbert, Belal, and Colby, and then Belal and Gilbert fought. Colby’s ranked high–if you got to pick, Colby probably moves the needle the most, makes Leon the most money. He doesn’t think it’s a particularly hard fight. And the UFC wants it.”

Simpson revealed the camp didn’t intend to go against the top brass of the promotion and afford ‘Remember The Name’ the opportunity instead of Covington. Further, he disclosed it was a partnership that had to work in tandem.

Therefore, he concluded, “Obviously, that’s their preference. So I don’t think we’re going to plant our flag and die on the hill to say, ‘No, we want to fight Belal instead of Colby. It’s a partnership. So they’re like, ‘We prefer Colby.’ Leon’s like, ‘We’ll do Colby then’.”

The welterweight lynchpin recently admitted the ideal time for his fight will coincide with the promotion’s Abu Dhabi card. Still reeling from the effects of the previous title defense against Kamaru Usman at UFC 286, he needs some time to recover.

Read More: “This Might Be My Second Career” – Leon Edwards Teases Fans as UFC Champ Dons Goalkeeping Gloves Alongside Wrexham A.F.C. Star Ben Foster Ahead of Soccer Aid Appearance

What do you think of these statements by UFC champion Leon Edwards’ rep Tim Simpson? Do you believe his argument holds the water of making Colby Covington a title-shot frontrunner? Let us know in the comments below.

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