White: Edwards to get next title shot vs. Usman
It appears Leon Edwards' wish will finally come true.
The No. 3-ranked welterweight is "100%" in line to receive the next title shot against Kamaru Usman, UFC president Dana White told TSN's Aaron Bronsteter on Thursday.
The promotion had previously seemed hesitant to give Edwards a title shot despite his 10-fight unbeaten streak, which dates back to 2016, and his constant demands for the opportunity.
Usman most recently defended the 170-pound belt in a rematch with Colby Covington in November. At the time, Edwards was booked to face Jorge Masvidal in a presumed No. 1 contender bout at UFC 269, but Masvidal pulled out days later due to an injury. Edwards then turned his attention to the reigning champion:
Disappointed but honestly I knew this fraud didn't want to fight me anyway. He was just a stop off on the way to the title. The goal remains the same. Much needed family time now, @usman84kg i will see you soon.
— Leon 'Rocky' Edwards (@Leon_edwardsmma) November 10, 2021
No time frame was given for the impending title fight between Usman and Edwards. Following his win over Covington, Usman suggested that he wanted some time off after fighting three times in 2021.
Edwards most recently stepped into the Octagon last June when he defeated Nate Diaz by unanimous decision.
Usman and Edwards met in a non-title bout in 2015, well before either was a top contender. Usman won by unanimous decision. Edwards hasn't lost since.