Leon Edwards Calls for Championship Rematch With Kamaru Usman

Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn - USA TODAY Sports

The welterweight title picture seemed crystal clear just a month or two ago. That doesn't seem to be the case anymore, however. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced untold rescheduling issues for the UFC, but a 170-pound title showdown between Kamaru Usman, and Jorge Masvidal, seemed entirely nailed on for an event this July. As days roll by - the possibility of these two developing enemies seems to dwindle. 

Masvidal has switches sights somewhat, inviting Nate Diaz to re-run their UFC 244 meeting last November. So where does that leave Usman? A certain Conor McGregor has been invited to attempt a third division title reign by both Usman, and 'The Nigerian Nightmare's' manager, Ali Abdelaziz, however, according to the Henri Hooft trainee, 'The Notorious' one has gone almost radio silent in regards to making the deal a possibility.

In steps perennial welterweight challenger, Leon 'Rocky' Edwards. The Birmingham based all-rounded has long staked his claim for a challenge at Usman - the last opponent he's dropped a result to. The 28-year-old was paired with former titleholder, Tyron Woodley for a UFC Fight Night London event in March - until the entire card was shelved due to COVID-19 worries.

Taking to his official Twitter account this morning, Edwards has offered to take that seemingly elusive welterweight title challenger moniker - possibly at 'Fight Island'.

"@USMAN84kg f**k em they don't want it. They making every excuse in the book. I'll fight you. Fight Island or in the USA lets go."

.@USMAN84kg fuck em they dont want it. They making every excuse in the book. I'll fight you. fight island or in the USA lets go.

— Leon 'Rocky' Edwards (@Leon_edwardsmma) May 27, 2020

The 28-year-old contender's last career blemish, as mentioned above, came against Usman back in December of 2015. Since then, the Team Renegade BJJ & MMA trainee has amassed a staggering eight consecutive victories - dispatching the likes of Albert Tumenov, Vicente Luque, future Hall of Fame inductee, Donald Cerrone, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ace, Gunnar Nelson, and in July of last year - took a unanimous decision victory over former lightweight kingpin, Rafael dos Anjos, earning the #4 rank at welterweight as a result.