Leon Edwards, represented by Tim Simpson from the Chosen Advisory Group, isn’t adamant about denying Belal Muhammad a title shot over Colby Covington. While some MMA observers were displeased with Covington’s position as the No. 1 welterweight contender, Muhammad was the one most affected by the UFC’s decision.
Initially, Jorge Masvidal was the frontrunner for the position, but his loss to Gilbert Burns and subsequent retirement changed the landscape. Simpson explained that they were waiting to see the outcome of Masvidal vs. Burns because if Masvidal had won, a fight between him and Edwards for the title would have been a significant event. However, with Masvidal’s defeat, the options became Gilbert, Belal, and Colby. In terms of generating interest and income, Colby was seen as the most appealing choice. Simpson believed that the UFC also favored a matchup with Colby.
Despite Muhammad’s undefeated streak in his last 10 fights and his solid case for a title shot, UFC President Dana White named Covington as the No. 1 contender. From a sporting perspective, Muhammad appears to be the obvious favorite over Covington, considering Covington’s recent record. However, the final decision rests with the UFC, who determines the title challengers.
Simpson acknowledged the UFC’s preference for Covington but stated that they wouldn’t vehemently oppose it. He emphasized that it’s a partnership and said, “So they’re like, ‘We prefer Colby.’ Leon’s like, ‘We’ll do Colby then.”
Initially, Edwards seemed uninterested in fighting Covington, but Simpson clarified that it was more of a strategic move. He explained that Edwards didn’t care who he fought for the title; winning the championship was his primary goal. However, it was satisfying to assert some resistance after Covington had disregarded him in the past.
Assuming there are no scheduling conflicts, negotiations, or injuries, the next welterweight title fight will be between Edwards and Covington.
Simpson mentioned that they were ready to fight from August, but Edwards had a foot injury after his fight with Usman. They considered holding a pay-per-view event in July in the UK but ESPN had concerns due to the time difference. August was also ruled out due to another fight scheduled. Simpson concluded that Edwards would be ready to fight as soon as the UFC finalized their plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Title shot
What is the current situation regarding the welterweight title shot in the UFC?
The current situation regarding the welterweight title shot in the UFC is that Colby Covington has been named the No. 1 contender by UFC President Dana White, despite Belal Muhammad’s solid case for a title shot. Leon Edwards, represented by Tim Simpson from the Chosen Advisory Group, has expressed a willingness to fight Covington and respects the UFC’s decision.
Why was Colby Covington chosen as the No. 1 contender over Belal Muhammad?
The decision to choose Colby Covington as the No. 1 contender over Belal Muhammad was ultimately made by the UFC. While Muhammad has an impressive undefeated streak and recently defeated Gilbert Burns, the UFC favored Covington due to his ability to generate interest and income for the promotion. It was a strategic decision based on business factors and the UFC’s preference.
Was Leon Edwards initially reluctant to fight Colby Covington?
Leon Edwards initially seemed uninterested in fighting Colby Covington, but according to Tim Simpson, it was more of a strategic move rather than genuine reluctance. Edwards’s primary goal is to win the welterweight championship, and he doesn’t mind who he fights to achieve that. However, it was satisfying for him to assert some resistance after Covington had disregarded him in the past.
When can we expect the welterweight title fight between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington?
Assuming there are no scheduling conflicts, negotiations, or injuries, the welterweight title fight between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington could happen once the UFC finalizes their plans. They were initially ready to fight from August, but Edwards had a foot injury after his fight with Kamaru Usman. The exact timing of the fight will depend on the UFC’s upcoming events and decisions.
More about Title shot
- Leon Edwards says Colby Covington is his preferred opponent for UFC title shot
- Belal Muhammad frustrated by UFC’s decision to grant Colby Covington title shot
- Colby Covington named No. 1 contender, Leon Edwards accepts fight
- UFC President Dana White explains decision to choose Colby Covington
