BREAKING: UFC Removes Number 3 Ranked Welterweight Leon Edwards From The Rankings

UFC welterweight Leon Edwards has reportedly been taken off the UFC rankings because of inactivity. The 18-3 fighter last competed back in July 2019, where he would grind out a decision win over Rafael Dos Anjos. Since then, he hasn’t been able to find his way back to the octagon despite making many social media call-outs.

He was set to come back in London against Tyron Woodley in March, however, COVID-19 would sideline him. Moreover, his booking would swiftly go to Gilbert Burns, who made good use of his opportunity against a former champion. Edwards said that he could not leave England, and the pandemic put his training on hold.

Leon Edwards: Where does he go from here?

It came to light that there were several fights that came his way before ‘Rocky’ turned them down. Edwards shot down a fight at UFC 251 when ‘Durinho’ tested positive and had to withdraw from the event. Not to mention, it surfaced that fights with Colby Covington, Geoff Neal, and most recently Khamzat Chimaev were also thwarted by the Brit.

‘Rocky’ took to social media and responded to the situation that has taken the MMA world by surprise. It was largely unknown as to the reasoning why he just wasn’t able to get back into the cage despite being ranked at #3. Leon Edwards has now called out Khamzat Chimaev to a fight.

‘Borz’ responded swiftly on Twitter, as this is just the opportunity the rising star needs to make it big in the UFC. Should he beat Edwards, a title shot would not be far for the Russian-Swedish fighter.

ESPN’s Ariel Helwani gave a run-down of the situation and was as confused as many fans as to Leon’s predicament. The UFC was frustrated about the situation regarding booking, and it appears turning down the Chimaev fight was the last straw.

A fight between Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev makes sense from the viewpoint of exposure and opportunity. Edwards would be looking to swipe some shine off Chimaev who has got the entire MMA community watching his next move. Meanwhile, ‘Borz’, will get to fight the ranked contender that he craves on the main event of a fight card.