Muhammad's claim to challenge Edwards for the title is being disputed by the latter.
Fresh Take:
Leon "Rocky" Edwards, the ex-UFC Welterweight Champion (22-3), found himself back in the octagon at UFC 296 (December 16, Vegas), where he squared off against Colby "Chaos" Covington (No3, 17-4, USA). Edwards emerged victorious with a unanimous decision, but the discussion quickly shifted to his potential next opponent - Belal Muhammad (No2, 23-3, USA).
Despite the buzz surrounding Muhammad's claim to a title bout, Edwards has shown little interest in granting him a shot anytime soon. Edwards feels Muhammad hasn't earned such a opportunity, especially so quickly.
"I've got other big fish to fry. I don't see why Belal should be next. I've strung together ten straight wins and still didn't get a title shot. What makes him think he's entitled to special treatment? Covington jumped the queue, so let's see who steps up next. But let me tell ya, this is my turf now. I'm reigning supreme, and whoever comes my way is just there to feed the beast."
Muhammad hit back at Edwards' remarks on social media:
"Seems like he's scared to open his mouth.dimwit."
In the past, Edwards and Muhammad faced off at UFC Fight Night 187, but the bout ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke from Muhammad in the second round.
Although Edwards and Muhammad are now rivals, the current UFC Welterweight Champion is actually Belal Muhammad, who claimed the title from Edwards at UFC 304 last July. Muhammad is set to face off against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315, and no specific contender for the welterweight title has been confirmed following UFC 315. Several potential contenders, including Ian Machado Garry, Carlos Prates, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Sean Brady, are gunning for a shot at the title. Nevertheless, Edwards has stayed mum on the topic, perhaps awaiting the dust to settle.
- Leon "Rocky" Edwards, despite his recent privileged position as an ex-UFC Welterweight Champion, remains unconvinced about Belal Muhammad's claim for a title bout, feeling Muhammad hasn't earned such an opportunity yet.
- Edwards, who emerged victorious against Colby "Chaos" Covington in a rocky fight, hinted at bigger challenges ahead, questioning why Muhammad should be next in line for a title shot, given his own struggle to secure a title bout.
- Belal Muhammad, who currently holds the UFC Welterweight Championship, received a title shot against Edwards and defeated him last July, but the conversation about potential contenders for the title has not yet included Edwards, as he stays mum on the topic, possibly waiting for the dust to settle.
