Who is Leon Edwards' Next Opponent?

By Ali Hammad March 20, 2024 18:41

The UFC welterweight division is perhaps the strongest in the UFC. There is speculation and anticipation surrounding who will be the next opponent for the former champion, Leon Edwards.

At UFC 304 in July, Belal Muhammad ended Edwards's twelve-fight unbeaten streak, dethroning Edwards as champion.

This begs the question, what is next for Leon Edwards.

As fans eagerly await his next challenge, let's delve into the potential opponents and the landscape of the welterweight division to explore who might step into the Octagon to face "Rocky" Edward.

Current State of the Welterweight Division

The UFC welterweight division is known for its depth and competitive nature, with a roster of talented fighters vying for a shot at the title.

As the former champion, Leon Edwards has established himself as a formidable force in the division, showcasing his technical prowess and resilience inside the Octagon.

Recent Performances and Rankings

Potential Matchups for Leon Edwards in 2024

Ian Machado Garry

Leon Edwards's former training partner, Ian Machado Garry, is an exciting option for Edwards's next opponent. Machado Garry was kicked out of Edwards's gym, Team Renegade, in 2023, and it is fair to say there is no love lost between the two fighters. Machado Garry recently beat Michael Venom Page at UFC 303. Could a fight with Leon Edwards to settle their disagreements be in the works?

Shavkat Rakhmonov: The Dark Horse

Shavkat Rakhmonov's undefeated record and impressive victories position him as a dark horse in the welterweight division.

His standout performances have garnered attention, and a matchup against Edwards would present an intriguing clash of styles.

Rakhmonov's skill set and determination make him a compelling challenger for the title, and a potential showdown with Edwards would undoubtedly capture the interest of MMA fans worldwide. If he is not next in line for the title against Belal Muhammad, then Shavkat should face Leon Edwards.

Rumors and Speculations

Dana White's Insights

UFC President Dana White's remarks have shed light on the negotiations and discussions surrounding Leon Edwards' next opponent.

White praised Edwards' willingness to face any opponent, emphasizing the champion's unwavering commitment to taking on formidable challenges.

The UFC's efforts to finalize Edwards' next matchup have sparked rumors and speculations within the MMA community, adding to the anticipation surrounding the champion's future fights.

Potential Timeline for Edwards' Next Fight

The landscape of the welterweight division and the UFC's scheduling considerations may play a pivotal role in determining the timing of Leon Edwards' next fight.

Edwards will likely be in the Octagon next in 2025.

On the whole

As the welterweight division continues to evolve, the anticipation surrounding Leon Edwards' next fight reaches a fever pitch.

With potential opponents such as Ian Machado Garry and Shavkat Rakhmonov on the radar, the landscape of the division is rife with excitement and speculation.

The welterweight division's depth and the emergence of rising stars present a myriad of potential matchups for Leon Edwards in 2024.

Whether it's a showdown against a top-ranked contender or a rising phenom, Edwards' next fight promises to be a pivotal moment in the landscape of the UFC welterweight division.