This time the information is not on UFC Welterweight champion Leon Edwards’ prowess in the Octagon. At the time that Rocky was preparing to fight for the title against Belal Muhammad at UFC 304, the star of the MMA whose nickname is “Rocky”, amazed the fans and experts by shooting the basketball. This time getting an illness was simply the cherry on top.
An Unexpected Break
Edwards whose last title defence was against Covington at UFC 296 in December 2023; took a longer break than he expected. During a recent interview, Edwards made revelations that he planned on fighting at least three times in the year 2024. He was pinning his hopes on making UFC 300 in April but was told that Belal Muhammad is not a big enough star to co-main event . Their history started in 2021 when their fight at UFC Vegas 21 was brought to a premature end following an accidental eye-poke.
The Cure for Infection
In a recent training session, some of Edwards’ fans then invited him to the basketball court outside. In the mash-up uploaded on the social media platform Instagram, UFC commentator Joe Rogan posted a video of Edwards shocking everybody as he placed the ball such that gravity pushed it from one half-court through the basket. The crowd went wild and then Edwards chipped in with his typical line; “Headshot, dead”. The video spread very fast, and people started wondering whether it was a real act or it was dramatical.
Indeed, the whole saga of the clip and the subsequent investigation has raised a lot of concern. Many of them including the Joe Rogan went home wondering how Edwards executed his refined accuracy in the fight. Understanding that it is not a one man show to become an MMA fighter, the fans was amazed at his flexibility. Belal a football and basket ball player and a UFC champion has been punished as another fan said laughingly. Some showed some worry about Belal Muhammad fighting Edwards at UFC later in the year stating that he better watch his back.
“Ok he’s gonna KO Belal now,” one fan commented, referencing the power behind Edwards’ punches. Fans also remembered Edwards’ famous knockout of Kamru Osman at UFC 278, where a well-placed kick for one of the most memorable victories in UFC history came “That left punch was pure gold. damn!!! He knows Usman,” said another fan.
Controversy and Interest
Not everyone believed the video was real. Some observers thought it could be a clever marketing ploy, similar to previous campaigns where players lied about seemingly impossible tasks?”. a skeptical fan asked. Despite their misgivings, many fans were impressed with Edwards’ skills and chose to enjoy the moment. “Daaaamm that’s fire!” shouted one of the followers. Another praised Edwards’ trick shot, calling it “gangster sh*t.”
Increased Auras and Expectations
Since Edwards became champion, fans have seen his confidence and charisma grow. “Leon Loki’s got a lot of aura,” one fan said. This viral moment heightened the excitement of his upcoming title defense against Belal Muhammad. Edwards’ ability to draw fans in and out of the Octagon cements his status as a dominant force in the welterweight division.
As UFC 304 approaches, everyone will be watching Leon Edwards. It certainly added to the buzz as to whether or not his widely shared basketball shot was worth it. Seeing if Edwards can continue to dominate in the Octagon and retain his welterweight title is something fans are eager to see. Until then, there will be plenty of expectations and speculation in the world of MMA.
