Leon Edwards has never been defeated inside the UFC Octagon. The former UFC welterweight champion recently ended a streak of consecutive losses for the first time in his career. Prior to last year, Edwards had maintained an impressive 13-fight unbeaten streak until Belal Muhammad halted it by winning their title rematch at UFC 304. Muhammad claimed victory by decision, and in March, Edwards secured a submission win over top contender Sean Brady, marking the first time Brady had been tapped out.
Top welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry, ranked fourth in the division, suggested Edwards should consider retirement after his recent setbacks. However, Edwards has a different plan. After defending well against numerous takedown attempts in his last two main events, Edwards is ready to face Machado Garry, who is skilled in all areas of fighting. Machado Garry has been calling out Edwards for a while but paused after the former champion lost his top rank to Brady. Edwards expressed enthusiasm for the potential matchup, calling it a great fight that could help him return to the top.
Machado Garry boasts a professional record of 16-1 and 9-1 in the UFC, having recently won five rounds in a bout against Carlos Prates. Before Belal Muhammad captured the title at UFC 315, Jack Della Madalena from Australia was set to face Edwards in a title eliminator in March. However, Della Madalena was instead chosen as Muhammad’s next challenger and went on to win the title by decision. Edwards then faced Sean Brady, a stylistic challenge, using his grappling to counter the striker effectively. Despite recent challenges, Edwards believes he can still return to title contention, noting his age and experience against younger opponents like Della Madalena.
Fan Take: This news is significant for fight fans because it highlights Leon Edwards’ resilience and determination to remain a top contender despite setbacks. A potential fight between Edwards and Ian Machado Garry would be an exciting clash, combining experience with rising talent, and could shake up the welterweight division’s hierarchy.
