In a stunning upset back in 2022, Leon Edwards dethroned the dominant Welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman, earning the coveted title. Since then, Leon has reigned supreme over the division, showcasing his remarkable skills and resilience. This year, the two formidable fighters met once again, but Edwards proved to be a force to be reckoned with, successfully defending his championship against Usman.
With UFC 290 now in the books, fans eagerly await news about their beloved Welterweight champion’s next appearance in the octagon. In an exclusive interview with TNT Sports, UFC President Dana White offered insight into the promotion’s future plans, including exciting details about UFC 300, and hinted at Leon’s next bout, providing a tentative timeline for his upcoming fight.
Dana White teases Leon Edwards’ potential return
The possibility of UFC Welterweight champion Leon Edwards making a highly anticipated appearance at UFC 295 in the iconic Madison Square Garden has been creating buzz among fight fans. UFC President Dana White, in an interview with TNT Sports, confirmed that Edwards will certainly step into the octagon “before the end of the year,” and there’s a chance it could be at the legendary MSG venue.
Although White didn’t explicitly mention Leons’ potential opponent, Colby Covington is a strong contender, having been selected as the backup fighter for the champ’s rematch with Kamaru Usman at UFC 286.
Initially, Edwards dismissed Covington as a worthy adversary for his belt, expressing that he didn’t deserve the opportunity. However, he later softened his stance, indicating that he wouldn’t be overly stubborn about choosing another contender, such as the rising star Belal Muhammad, for his next challenge.
While a matchup between Leon and Covington was initially targeted for UFC London at The O2, the plans were put on hold as Edwards decided to postpone his return until the fall. Fight fans eagerly await the confirmation of this epic clash, as both fighters have shown immense talent and determination in the welterweight division.
Who did Leon Edwards win against to retain Welterweight title?
In a thrilling showdown at UFC 286, Leon Edwards showcased his unwavering prowess as he successfully defended his welterweight title against challenger Kamaru Usman. The epic trilogy fight occurred at the prestigious O2 Arena in London, where Edwards emerged victorious by a majority decision, securing scores of 48-46, 48-46, and 47-47 from the judges.
The British fighter’s exceptional performance saw him land cleaner and more impactful blows throughout the intense bout, ultimately extending his unbeaten streak to an impressive 12 wins. With this triumphant display of skill and determination, Leon solidified his position as a dominant force in the welterweight division, leaving fans in awe of his remarkable abilities.
Kamaru Usman predicts Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington š¤š pic.twitter.com/FqSTIOINga
— Best MMA Moments (@XcellentMMA) July 13, 2023
“I knew I could go out there and take his shots,” Leon Edwards said. “Even when he was pressuring, not much happened.”
Their latest encounter marked the third time these two formidable fighters clashed, a significant event that occurred over seven years following their initial bout, which Usman emerged victorious from.
