Leon Edwards: A Title Re-match in Sight
Leon Edwards, fondly known as "Rocky," is poised for a pivotal welterweight bout at UFC London on March 22, 2025. The matchup against Sean Brady came about after Edwards’ initial opponent, Jack Della Maddalena, was called upon to challenge welterweight champion Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. Muhammad secured his title with a decisive win over Edwards in July 2024, and Edwards expressed his desire for a rematch when he learned Muhammad needed a title challenger for the upcoming May pay-per-view. “I heard about my replacement fight a couple of weeks before,” Edwards shared on his YouTube vlog. “I was in talks with the UFC, trying to step in and fight Belal, but I knew they sold London around me, so removing me from the card would have been difficult. It wouldn’t have made sense to let Jack headline London.”
The Fighter Shuffle and Its Implications
The shuffle in fighters was prompted by an injury to Shavkat Rakhmonov, the No. 1 welterweight contender. Muhammad was originally set to defend his title against Rakhmonov at UFC 310 in December 2024, but a bone infection forced Muhammad to withdraw. Though the rematch was never officially booked, it was generally understood that Rakhmonov was still the next in line for a title shot. His unavailability, however, opened the door for Della Maddalena to face Muhammad. Edwards sees this change as a positive development for the division and for himself. “Jack getting replaced to fight for the title, I feel like that opened up the division more,” he said. “If he wins, I think that’s the perfect fight for me next. If Belal beats him, then a rematch is definitely on the table as well.”
Edwards’ Confidence and Motivation
Edwards is confident that a win over Sean Brady at The O2 Arena will solidify his position as the next title contender. The UFC has assured him that the winner of the London bout will be granted a No. 1 contender fight. “After this win, this is a No. 1 contender fight,” Edwards stated. “Whoever wins this, fights for the title. When I win, I fight for the title. That is my aim. I’m looking to regain that two-time world championship.” Edwards’ motivation is fueled by the belief that his previous fight against Muhammad was not a true reflection of his capabilities. “Everyone knew the result of the fight with me and Belal, and everyone knew that wasn’t me. I was fighting at home, at 5 a.m. in the morning, and there were many factors that affected my performance,” he admitted. “I can’t wait to set everything right, and it all starts with Sean Brady.”
The Feud with Belal Muhammad
The rivalry between Edwards and Belal Muhammad dates back to March 2021, when their first encounter ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke that left Muhammad unable to continue just 18 seconds into Round 2. This incident created a simmering tension between the two fighters, which only intensified when Muhammad went on to secure five consecutive wins before earning a rematch with Edwards in July 2024. Muhammad’s win in that rematch was a significant milestone, but Edwards remains undeterred. “I spoke to the UFC, and they told me that after this win, this is a No. 1 contender fight,” he reiterated. “When I win, I fight for the title. I know I have to do my part first.”
Brady: A Comfortable but Challenging Opponent
Sean Brady, Edwards’ opponent at UFC London, is seen as a style that Edwards is comfortable with, despite the clear threat Brady poses. “It’s a style that I’m used to. It’s a style that I’m comfortable fighting. So I’m looking forward to it, it should be good,” Edwards commented. Brady’s technical skills and aggressive style make him a formidable opponent, but Edwards’ experience and adaptability are significant assets. The fight promises to be a showcase of top-tier welterweight talent, with both fighters bringing their best to the octagon.
The Road Ahead
Belal Muhammad responded to Edwards’ vlog on social media, issuing a warning: “Someone tell him he got three long years ahead of him.” This comment underscores the competitiveness and high stakes of the welterweight division. However, Edwards is determined to prove his worth and secure another title shot. His confidence and focus are palpable, and he is ready to put on a performance that will silence any doubters. The O2 Arena will witness a thrilling contest, and the outcome could reshape the welterweight landscape, potentially leading to a long-awaited rematch with Muhammad.
