Former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards is determined to reclaim his title by the end of 2025, following his July loss to Belal Muhammad. The 33-year-old fighter from Birmingham, who held the belt for nearly a year and defended it twice, is now focused on his path back to the top of the division.
“My goal right now is to get the belt back,” Edwards shared on Instagram. “For me, it’s more about what’s next and how to get back to where you want to be. My goal is to be a two-time world champion.”
If successful, Edwards would make history as the first British fighter to win a UFC championship twice, a feat not achieved by Michael Bisping or Tom Aspinall, the only other UK fighters to hold UFC titles.
A Long Unbeaten Streak Ends
Edwards’ defeat to Muhammad at UFC 304 marked the end of a remarkable 13-fight unbeaten streak stretching back to 2015. Before that, his only other UFC loss was to Kamaru Usman, whom Edwards later defeated in back-to-back bouts to claim and defend the welterweight title.
The loss to Muhammad was particularly disheartening for Edwards, as it occurred in front of his home fans in Manchester during an event tailored for a US audience. The overnight timing meant Edwards entered the octagon at 05:30 local time, which some speculated could have impacted his performance.
“I haven’t lost a fight in like nine years,” Edwards said. “It’s getting used to that feeling again, but I feel like I hate losing more than I love winning.”
What’s Next for “Rocky”?
Though no official bout has been announced, there’s speculation about a possible matchup with Jorge Masvidal at UFC Fight Night in London on 22 March. The two fighters have a storied history, with their infamous backstage altercation in 2019 creating ongoing tension.
Masvidal, now retired, would need to re-enter the testing pool and confirm his return to professional fighting for the matchup to materialize. Other top contenders in the welterweight division could also be on Edwards’ radar, including rising stars and established veterans vying for a shot at the belt.
The Road to Redemption
Edwards remains focused on moving past the setback and regaining his place among UFC’s elite champions. Despite the disappointment of losing his title, his resilience and determination to become a two-time champion highlight his competitive spirit.
“There’s not much you can do now,” Edwards said. “Just move on from that and put it behind you.”
As one of the UK’s most accomplished MMA fighters, Edwards’ journey back to the championship will undoubtedly capture the attention of fans worldwide. With his experience, skill set, and drive, the prospect of seeing “Rocky” reclaim UFC gold remains a tantalizing possibility.
