Leon Edwards Turns Down Call Outs From Wonderboy and Chimaev

Leon Edwards has made it clear that it’s title shot or bust for the 18-3 fighter. Edwards hasn’t fought in the octagon since July 2019 when he defeated Rafael dos Anjos via unanimous decision. Woodley vs. Edwards was booked for March 21st, but due to COVID restrictions the fight was postponed. During a recent interview, Edwards turned down both Stephen Wonderboy Thompson and Khamzat Chimaev.

As far as Wonderboy, he got knocked out like a fight ago. Pettis knocked him out one fight ago. If I go out there right now and I fight Wonderboy and I beat Wonderboy the UFC will be like ‘let’s go one more in the top-five and then we’ll go for a title.’ They wouldn’t give me a title shot straight away. “As far as Chimaev, he’s only had what one fight at welterweight against a lightweight guy? It’s hard to judge from that. When he’s calling me out, I don’t really pay attention. It is what it is. I don’t really pay attention too much.”

Leon Edwards

Edwards Needs To Get Back Into The Octagon ASAP

Edwards is a top title contender, but the organization is moving past him right now and that’s a serious problem. If what Edwards is saying is true and the top 3 Welterweights are turning down fights against him, then why not stay active and fight someone like Thompson or Chimaev? Knowing your worth is important don’t get me wrong, but staying active is just as important nowadays in the UFC.

The MMA world moves fast, and sitting and waiting for the next perfect fight doesn’t work nowadays. It has been 443 days since Edwards has entered the octagon. Look at Chimaev for example, three fights in 66 days and everyone knows his name. It’s a risk, but no one gets paid when you’re hoping, wishing, and waiting for the next perfect fight. Would it hurt Edwards if he accepted a fight with Woodley or Chimaev and he lost? Absolutely. Are people forgetting how important Edwards is to the Welterweight division as every day passes? 100%. Edwards needs to accept a fight outside of the top 3 in order to keep his name in the title shot picture. Without it, the UFC will move forward and make fights without Leon in the discussion.