As UFC 304 approaches, there is talk of a rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad. Their previous meeting ended in a scoreless contest thanks to an accidental eyeball from Edwards. Now Edwards, the welterweight champion, faces a target on his back with multiple competitors fighting for guns. Among the notable names, Conor McGregor stands out by hinting at a return to the welterweight division.
Unexpected offer: McGregor and Edwards?
Just days before UFC Manchester, Edwards’ coach Dave Lovell revealed the intriguing matchup he envisioned for the champion. In a broadcast radio interview on July 22, 2024, Lovell expressed a strong desire to see Edwards face McGregor. This comes after McGregor had previously expressed interest in fighting Edwards if he defeated Michael Chandler, a fight that was eventually cancelled.
Lovell’s Take: Economic and Career Benefits
Lovell highlighted the financial greed involved in fighting McGregor. “If we’re looking for a fight on the budget, which obviously can pay off above average, obviously, it’s going to be a fight with Conor,” Lovell said. He reminded McGregor of his intention to move up to welterweight to challenge Edwards, a prospect that excites both trainer and fighter. “Connor said he would move up to welterweight and fight Leon, if he wanted to beat Chandler. But that went out the window.”
Makhachev Calls: A Contender is in the Mix
Light heavyweight champion Islam Makhachev also expressed interest in moving up to welterweight to challenge Edwards. But McGregor’s star power and financial incentives make him a very compelling opponent. Lovell welcomed Makhachev’s challenge but reiterated the appeal of the McGregor fight. “Well, I haven’t really found anyone to say I want Leon to fight except obviously, if he has to fight Conor. It would be a great name to put on his CV. Also, it’s a mega-money war. Can you imagine if that could happen in Ireland? But other than that, I’m nothing special, brother.”
Edwards’ Aspirations: Move up in the Weight Class
Edwards has entertained the idea of fighting McGregor himself. He has previously expressed a desire to meet McGregor at Madison Square Garden. But Edwards is also aiming for middleweight. During the talkSPORT MMA interview he talked about his plans after the Muhammad fight, which hinted at a possible move to middleweight. “He’s on the defensive line of the three. Having beaten Belal, I would even go third. So, they are both in similar ways. So I can see that happening in the future. Also, I want to step up and try for middleweight, you know.”
Clash of the Titans: Hope for the Future
While Edwards likes McGregor’s charisma and trash skills, his move to middleweight could delay or avert a clash with McGregor Lovell’s dream that an Edwards-McGregor fight hinges on McGregor’s return and possible move to middleweight weight of the mouth. The UFC world is eagerly watching, waiting for confirmation of McGregor’s return and Edwards’ next step.
The Fantastic Future of the UFC
A fascinating new dimension to the UFC scene is the potential matchup between Conor McGregor and Leon Edwards. While fans and commentators alike anticipate the possible fireworks that a fight with McGregor would bring, Edwards is getting ready for his rematch with Muhammad and thinking about his future. Unexpected matches and fresh difficulties are just two ways that the UFC is changing.
