Khamzat Chimaev calls out Leon Edwards for a welterweight showdown in Abu Dhabi. Get all the details on this unexpected matchup and the latest developments in the UFC welterweight division.
Khamzat Chimaev Set to Face Leon Edwards
In a surprising turn of events, rising UFC star Khamzat Chimaev has called out welterweight champion Leon Edwards for a showdown in Abu Dhabi. Chimaev, who has been on a hiatus since his last fight in September last year, expressed his desire to return to the octagon and challenge Edwards for the title. This announcement comes after rumors of a potential middleweight bout between Chimaev and Paulo Costa fell through due to scheduling conflicts.
Chimaev burst onto the scene with impressive performances that caught the attention of the UFC. However, he has since been sidelined with no concrete return date. The news of his potential matchup with Edwards has left fans bewildered, as the welterweight contender previously mentioned Costa as his desired opponent.
The UFC has yet to confirm the fight, and it remains uncertain what the future holds for both Chimaev and Costa. Both fighters have proven to be difficult to pin down, especially considering their active presence on social media. Chimaev’s call-out of Edwards adds another layer of intrigue to the welterweight division.
Meanwhile, Chimaev isn’t the only fighter vying for a shot at Edwards. Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has also thrown his name into the mix, calling out Edwards on Twitter. The potential clash between Makhachev and Edwards has received mixed responses from fans and fellow fighters.
In other news, featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski’s recent surgery has opened up the possibility of a rematch with Makhachev. Volkanovski, who is expected to recover in six weeks, has expressed his interest in facing Makhachev again. The first contest between the two fighters was closely contested, and Volkanovski is determined to secure a rematch.
Lastly, Jorge Masvidal, who recently vacated the BMF title, has revealed the two contenders who will compete for the belt at UFC 291. Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier, both deserving of the opportunity, will face off in a highly anticipated rematch. Masvidal, speaking on the Smack Talk with Sandhu podcast, shared his insights on the fight, favoring Poirier due to his previous victory over Gaethje.
Masvidal also confirmed that he will be present at UFC 291 to personally award the vacant title to the winner. His presence adds excitement to an already thrilling matchup.
As fans eagerly await official confirmation from the UFC, the welterweight division is buzzing with anticipation. Will Chimaev get his shot at Edwards? And who will emerge victorious in the Gaethje vs. Poirier rematch? Only time will tell.
reference: www.mmanews.com
