At this point, you almost have to feel bad for top UFC welterweight Leon Edwards (18-3). Edwards is currently on an eight fight winning streak and he’s the third ranked welterweight in the division. However, the UFC can’t get him a fight.
He’s called out Jorge Masvidal multiple times for a fight. He’s called out Colby Covington, and he even said he would fight Nick Diaz. Despite his attempts, nothing has materialized and Edwards has continued to sit on the bench.
Edwards said to MMA Fighting that the UFC offered him and Masvidal the fight. Edwards said that he agreed to the fight, but the UFC‘s BMF turned down the opportunity to face Edwards in the octagon.
“I want the fight. The UFC wanted the fight. They offered it to him and he turned it down. He said he’d rather fight Nate Diaz. I don’t understand it. He claims he wants to get back to the title shot and fight for a world championship. I don’t understand what fighting a person like Nate Diaz will get you? I don’t know,” Edwards told MMA Fighting
What does the UFC do with Leon Edwards?
Edwards said that he would either want to fight Covington, Masvidal or for the title in that interview with MMA Fighting. Anything else inside the UFC isn’t of great interest. However, there is one fight that makes a lot of sense if you ask me.
Last week, Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (15-4-1) called out Edwards. Thompson has challenged for the UFC title twice and he’s currently ranked fifth in the division. He would be the highest ranked opponent Edwards would have faced to this point.
Despite the fact that the fight makes sense, Edwards hasn’t shown much interest in fighting Thompson. In fact, he hasn’t even responded to the callout. Edwards’ biggest problem right now is the lack of care the public seems to have in him.
Realizing that, he’s really wanting a fight with someone who could elevate him by ranking and status. While Wonderboy would help his ranking status, it’s not the sexiest fight in the world which is probably why Edwards hasn’t shown much interest.