Leon Edwards confirmed that he is the rightful UFC welterweight king after midnight on Sunday. For the second time, he was able to defeat the previously dominant champion Kamaru Usman, and his qualities can no longer be doubted. But there are doubts about the name of his next challenger. That’s supposed to be Colby Covington, and the Jamaica native isn’t thrilled about it either.
Edwards the undisputed king
The UFC’s welterweight division has a real charge right now. It was helped by the fact that there was a new champion. This has been the case since August of last year, Leon Edwards, who finished off Kamara Usman with a hard high kick in the fifth round and caused a shock.
But Usman was better in that match. It was widely said that this was mere coincidence on Edwards’ part. And given Usman’s long-term dominance, it was certain that there was bound to be a rematch. It took place over the weekend in London and the native of Jamaica deservedly won on points.
There can be no doubt about his place on the throne and the fighters who were not enough for Usman have a new chance. For example, Colby Covington, whom the head of the organization Dana White identified as another challenger.
Why Covington? Even the champion doesn’t understand
Covington has not been enough for Usman twice, there is no one in the current top ten weight class that he can beat. In fact, he hasn’t fought anyone in the top ten besides Usman. He last beat Jorge Masvidal a year ago, who is now up to the eleventh division.
That’s why it’s a surprise that White singled out Covington when there are clearly more deserving fighters. For example, Gilbert Burns, who is active, takes on giant challenges and is not afraid of anything. In addition, he now faces a fight with Masvidal.
Or Khamzat Chimaev, who beat the aforementioned Burns. In addition, he challenged Covington, he would definitely be interested in the title match. But according to White, he will fight in the next match at middleweight, not at welterweight.
Anyway, even Edwards doesn’t understand Covington’s choice. “I don’t see what sense it makes. He hasn’t fought in over a year. He was just sitting and wasn’t even hurt. I don’t understand how he cruised to a title fight when there are other fighters who are active, fighting and not sitting on their ass.” quotes her MMA Fighting.
“Like I said, I’m king now. I had to fight for everything. Therefore, I feel that I should decide who will be my next challenger.” added the champion.
Source: UFC, MMA Fighting, Sherdog
