Dana White announces Leon Edwards’ next fight after UFC 286 title defence will be against Colby Covington
UFC president Dana White has announced Leon Edwards’ second title defence will be against Colby Covington.
Rocky retained his welterweight strap on Saturday night with a majority decision victory over Kamaru Umsan in the main event of UFC 286 in London.
Attention has now turned to who the proud Brummie will face later this year, although UFC supremo White has seemingly already made the decision for him.
During the post-fight press conference, he said: “That’s the fight that makes sense, Colby came over here, cut weight and did everything to be here for this fight.
“He deserves the fight. Not to mention that he’s the second or third best guy in the world.”
Covington was cageside for Edwards’ win over his bitter rival Usman and was even the backup for the main event.
The former interim welterweight champion tried his best to insert himself into Edwards’ future but has been shot down by the champion.
He said: “I just don’t see how Colby sits out for a year, then slides back into a title shot.
“I had to work so hard to get there, he was saying who is he but now I’m the king. I’ll decide who’s next.”
Covington said of his serving as a backup: “I’m ready to fight tonight as you guys see.
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“I came over and cut 18 pounds, didn’t cry about it and make excuses.
“I’m the ultimate professional unlike these other guys as I stay ready to fight.”
Seconds after the main event, Covington tweeted: “See you in July @Leon_edwardsmma.”
Edwards‘ striking was on point in his maiden title defence, after which he was quick to praise former pound-for-pound Usman.
He said: “I want to say thank you to him, he’s been a great competitor.
“I was trying to get the head kick, but fair play to him because he had perfect defence.”