UFC President Dana White has revealed when fight fans can expect Leon Edwards to return to the Octagon.
Edwards is the reigning UFC Welterweight Champion. “Rocky” was last seen in action back in March when he successfully defended the 170-pound gold in a trilogy fight against Kamaru Usman. While many felt it would’ve made sense for Edwards to put his gold on the line in London this year, the timing was off as “Rocky” wasn’t going to be healed in time for a proper camp.
Kamaru Usman predicts Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington 🤔👀 pic.twitter.com/FqSTIOINga
— Best MMA Moments (@XcellentMMA) July 13, 2023
When Will Leon Edwards Return?
The welterweight titleholder has been saying that he’ll be ready for October in Abu Dhabi. While October is an attractive month for Edwards, the UFC may hold off on “Rocky’s” return just one month longer. Dana White was interviewed by Adam Catterall for TNT Sports recently. During the interview, the UFC boss gave a timeframe for the next welterweight title fight.
“Before the end of the year,” White said. “Yeah, we’ll see him before the end of the year. He could play out to possibly fight at MSG. Again, stuff we’re still working out. We’re up to October figured out right now.”
White has insisted that Colby Covington is next in line for a shot at the UFC welterweight gold. This has led to some pushback from media members, and even Edwards himself, who said that he feels Covington is getting the “Dana White privilege.”
Many believe Belal Muhammad should’ve been awarded the next title shot given he has gone 9-0, 1 NC in his last 10 outings. White has committed to giving Belal the winner of Edwards vs. Covington. Muhammad said he is content with waiting for the winner. Belal is obviously hoping that White sticks to his word and there isn’t a controversial finish that leads to an automatic rematch between “Rocky” and “Chaos.”
