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Image Credits: Imago
UFC Welterweight Champion Leon Edwards recently discussed his upcoming fight and shared his thoughts on the chosen opponent in an interview with Carlos Contreras Legaspi. During the conversation, Edwards revealed that he is back in training. He also had a meeting with the UFC to discuss his next bout.
He expressed his desire to return to the Octagon in October or November and mentioned that Colby Covington is likely to be his next opponent. However, Edwards also expressed his reservations about Covington’s deservingness for a title shot, given his limited activity.
This news comes as a surprise for everyone after Leon refused to fight Colby in July, causing friction between him and UFC president Dana White.
Leon Edwards is not really excited?
The interview touched upon the potential locations for the fight, with options being Abu Dhabi or New York. Edwards stated that Abu Dhabi would be preferable due to its proximity to his home. However, he also acknowledged the significance of fighting at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York. Additionally, he mentioned the presence of a large Jamaican population in New York, making it an appealing destination as well.
Welterweight champion Leon Edwards @Leon_edwardsmma tells me that he is back in training and had a meeting with the UFC yesterday.
Expects to fight "undeserving" Colby Covington in Abu Dhabi October or New York City in November
More to come on @espnmma pic.twitter.com/SkVc8i2JyN
— Carlos Contreras Legaspi 🦁 (@CCLegaspi) July 7, 2023
Edwards voiced his concerns about Covington’s suitability as a title contender. He said, “He hasn’t fought for over 2 years, he’s coming off 1 win against Masvidal, so I don’t think he’s the deserving guy for the belt”. Despite his reservations, Edwards accepted that the UFC has chosen Covington for the title fight, and he is prepared to face him regardless.
‘Rocky’ and his incredible rise to UFC glory
The Birmingham-raised fighter made headlines when he shocked the MMA world by knocking out the dominant UFC welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman, to claim the title. While Edwards started strong, he faded in the middle rounds. However, he sealed the victory with a memorable head kick that resonated worldwide. He then defended his title in front of his hometown crowd, securing a majority decision win against Usman.
Before earning his title shot, Edwards amassed an impressive 12-fight winning streak, defeating notable opponents such as Vicente Luque, Bryan Barbarena, Donald Cerrone, and Nate Diaz. His dominant run solidified his status as a top welterweight in the division.
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – AUGUST 20: (L-R) Leon Edwards of Jamaica lands a head kick to Kamaru Usman of Nigeria in the UFC welterweight championship fight during the UFC 278 event at Vivint Arena on August 20, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC)
As fans eagerly anticipate Edwards’ next title defense, the location of the matchup remains uncertain. Abu Dhabi or New York? Which would be a more fitting setting for the Leon vs. Colby showdown? Let us know in the comments section below.
In the coming months, Edwards will continue his training. Regardless of the opponent or the location, he will prepare to defend his UFC Welterweight Championship. Fight fans can expect an exhilarating clash between two elite athletes in the welterweight division.