The octagon is primed for a blockbuster showdown at UFC 310, where undefeated phenom Shavkat Rakhmonov squares off against Ian Garry in a welterweight title eliminator that promises fireworks. This isn’t just a fight—it’s a clash of styles, personalities, and ambitions, with both fighters looking to make a lasting impact on the 170lbs division landscape.

As fans eagerly anticipate this high-stakes battle, former UFC star and analyst Chael Sonnen has raised an important question: why is former welterweight king Leon Edwards being left out of the conversation? Sonnen questioned the matchmaking, wondering what Edwards, a dominant champion in his own right, needed to do to stay in the title picture.

Chael Sonnen weighs in on Leon Edwards being sidestepped ahead of UFC 310

Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad finally put an end to their long-standing rivalry in a solid clash at UFC 304. With the welterweight title at stake, both fighters had everything to prove. Edwards, seeking to cement his legacy as a dominant champion, faced Muhammad, who was on a mission for redemption after their controversial no-contest in 2021. In the end, Muhammad’s relentless pressure and adaptability saw him emerge victorious, capturing the belt and solidifying his place atop the division.

The stage was set for Muhammad to defend his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov at the highly anticipated UFC 310. However, a bone infection forced the 36-year-old champion to withdraw. To keep the event intact, the UFC brought in rising star Ian Garry, creating a compelling new matchup. Yet, the decision to overlook former champion Leon Edwards as a replacement has sparked heated discussions, particularly from MMA analyst and former fighter Chael Sonnen.

‘The American Gangster’ took to his YouTube channel to voice his frustration, questioning the UFC’s decision to bypass Edwards. He said, “Having Belal get hurt doesn’t just slow the division down or take on opportunity away from Rakhmonov. It really pushes the probability for Leon, I mean it pushes it out exponentially. When they were talking about who should Belal defend against first. The very first person that should have been considered was Leon. If Leon was the champion and rightfully so, if he truly was number one and gets beat, he should fall to number one contender.” 

It seems Leon Edwards will have to wait for his next big opportunity before he gets into contention again. However, the upcoming fight at UFC 310 is a masterclass in itself. Two of the most talented fighters in the division will take on each other and the battle is evenly poised at the moment. However, former UFC champion Michael Bisping points out what Garry needs to do to win the fight.

Michael Bisping issues caution for Ian Garry ahead of UFC 310 fight

Shavkat Rakhmonov has quickly established himself as one of the most formidable forces in the UFC, blazing a trail of dominance through the welterweight division. Undefeated with a flawless record, Rakhmonov’s skill set is nothing short of extraordinary. Combining striking precision, grappling mastery, and an unrelenting killer instinct, he has finished every opponent he’s faced in his 18 outings, proving he’s a true finisher who can adapt to any challenge.

At UFC 310, Rakhmonov faces his toughest test yet: the equally undefeated Ian Garry, a fighter renowned for his technical prowess and striking acumen. Despite Garry’s skills, many believe Rakhmonov presents a unique and overwhelming challenge. Even UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping weighed in on the matchup, noting the immense risk for Garry. “He didn’t have to take this fight,” Bisping said, acknowledging Garry’s bold decision. However, Bisping also issued a cautionary note for Garry: “If he can’t stop the takedown, he will get finished.”

Will ‘Nomad’ maintain his unbeaten streak and inch closer to UFC gold, or can Garry pull off a career-defining upset? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!