After a hiatus of almost two years, the UFC is back in London, bringing high-stakes matchups to the O2 Arena for UFC London. The main event features former welterweight champion Leon Edwards, returning to the octagon for the first time since his title loss to Belal Muhammad at UFC 304. He will face the up-and-coming contender Sean Brady in a critical fight.
MMA Fighting`s team, Alexander K. Lee, Mike Heck, and Jed Meshew, discuss the main attractions of this UFC London event and what each fight signifies for the fighters involved.
Championship Stakes for Edwards and Brady
Heck: For Leon Edwards, this fight is crucial for his welterweight championship aspirations. A defeat here could be a major setback. Despite a spectacular title win and subsequent victories, the UFC seemed hesitant to give him a title shot initially. Now, after losing the belt to Belal Muhammad, fighting in his home country against a strong but less famous opponent like Sean Brady, Edwards essentially needs a win to stay in title contention.
For Sean Brady, the path to a title shot is challenging due to his lower profile. He needs to accumulate significant wins, especially considering his previous loss to Muhammad. Defeating Edwards would be a big step forward, but a loss would push him further down the rankings. However, being a top 10 welterweight is still a notable achievement.
Title Eliminator Debate
Meshew: While this fight appears to be a title eliminator on paper, given Edwards` No. 1 ranking and Brady at No. 5, the welterweight division in 2025 is complex. Shavkat Rakhmonov is likely next in line for a title shot, regardless of the outcome of UFC London or the Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena fight at UFC 315. Furthermore, Islam Makhachev`s interest in a second title could further complicate the title picture if Muhammad loses his belt.
Therefore, the winner of Edwards vs. Brady might still need another win to secure a title shot. Potential opponents include rising contenders like Ian Machado Garry and Joaquin Buckley. The winner could face one of them in a title eliminator bout, possibly as a lead-up to Rakhmonov`s title opportunity.
Fan Support and Career Trajectory
Lee: Beyond title implications, Edwards needs to impress the London crowd and solidify his star status. While a win against Brady is expected, a dominant performance could boost his popularity. Given the likelihood of needing another win before a title shot anyway, increasing his public profile is beneficial.
For Brady, this fight is an opportunity to disrupt the welterweight hierarchy and break into the top echelon of the division.
Light Heavyweight Title Picture
Meshew: The light heavyweight division has been shaken up by Magomed Ankalaev`s victory over Alex Pereira. An immediate rematch for Pereira seems likely, putting other contenders like Ulberg and Blachowicz on hold. A win for Ulberg would be significant, potentially positioning him for a title shot after the rematch. Blachowicz, as a former champion, could also earn another title opportunity with an impressive win.
Lee: A Pereira rematch is probable, but if he delays, Blachowicz could step in. Ulberg, with his winning streak and exciting style, is a compelling challenger. The fight`s outcome will influence the matchmakers` decisions, with dominant wins potentially leading to quicker title shots.
Heck: Ankalaev`s win has likely changed the immediate plans. The winner of Blachowicz vs. Ulberg might need another fight before a title shot, especially with a potential Pereira rematch and other contenders in the mix. Blachowicz might face an uphill battle for a title shot due to the UFC`s perception of his previous fight with Ankalaev.
Heavyweight Sleeper and Flyweight Prospect
Lee: Trivia: Mick Parkin holds the longest active UFC heavyweight win streak. Parkin, with a 10-0 record, is a rising heavyweight contender. Despite a humorous tone, a title shot in 2025 is a realistic possibility if he continues his winning streak, especially with the heavyweight title picture in flux.
Parkin`s fight against Marcin Tybura is surprisingly high-stakes for UFC London.
Fan Favorite and Rising Flyweight
Heck: Molly McCann is a huge fan favorite at UFC London. Originally scheduled for an easier fight, she now faces a tougher debutante. While her job might not be at risk, another loss could significantly diminish fan support. This fight is important for McCann to maintain her standing.
Meshew: Lone`er Kavanagh is a flyweight prospect to watch. Making his second UFC appearance after a successful debut, Kavanagh is highly regarded. He possesses a dynamic fighting style and significant potential, making his fight against Felipe dos Santos a compelling matchup between rising talents.
