Michael Bisping believes Leon Edwards faces a tough road to regain his position in the welterweight title race.
Former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards suffered a submission loss to Sean Brady at UFC London, marking his second consecutive defeat in MMA.
This loss complicates Edwards`s journey back to a title shot. Current champion Belal Muhammad is scheduled to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in May, meaning a Muhammad rematch is not immediately available for Edwards.
To re-enter the title conversation, Edwards needs a significant victory. Michael Bisping has suggested a potential opponent for Edwards`s next fight.
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Michael Bisping Suggests Leon Edwards`s Next Opponent
During a post-fight show, Bisping discussed Edwards`s future and the challenges he faces after UFC London.
“I like the Ian Garry fight because Leon deserves a matchup that favors his style,” Bisping commented. “Not an easy win, but not a terrible stylistic challenge… However, Leon Edwards`s biggest challenge will be mental. What is he thinking?”
Bisping continued, “Will he accept that he lost to two top-level grapplers, possibly the best in the division? Or will he find the strength to rebuild himself? Self-doubt can creep in, and that’s his biggest fight now. If he overcomes this, I believe Leon Edwards can contend for the title again.”
“He will need at least three wins and needs to start finishing fights to restart those title discussions.”
Ian Machado Garry previously lost to Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 in December. Garry stepped in on short notice to face Rakhmonov in a No. 1 contender fight after Muhammad was unavailable.
Edwards and Garry were once teammates, but a dispute created tension between them. A fight between these two strikers would be logical for both.
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Sean Brady Mocks Leon Edwards After UFC London
The tension between Edwards and Brady continued after UFC London. Brady claimed Edwards underestimated him and mocked Edwards on social media by imitating his signature pose.
UFC London fans were unhappy with Brady`s victory, booing and leaving early. Similar reactions occurred during Edwards`s loss to Muhammad at UFC 304 last July.
As of now, Edwards has not publicly commented on his UFC London performance, but his brother Fabian shared an optimistic message on social media.
During his Hall of Fame career, Bisping overcame obstacles to win a UFC title. It remains to be seen if Edwards can rebound from his recent setbacks, but he is expected to return to competition before the end of the year.
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Rupert Hartwell