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Leon Edwards' coach, Dave Lovell, recently expressed interest in a potential matchup between his fighter and rising Irish star Ian Garry. In an interview with talkSPORT, Lovell revealed that a clash between the two would make sense for both parties, especially considering the “background story” from last year. With Edwards no longer holding the UFC Welterweight Championship, this matchup could offer a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers.
“I’d like to see Leon and Garry,” Lovell said. “As you know their little background story we had going back last year, he’s looking for a scalp. Now, Leon’s not champion, he may think, well, it is a good scalp for him to get.” The “background story” Lovell refers to likely alludes to Garry’s rise in the division, with the young fighter making a name for himself as the “next big thing” at welterweight. Edwards, on the other hand, has had a storied career, finally capturing the title from Kamaru Usman in 2022 and successfully defending it before losing the belt in 2024.
From Lovell’s perspective, a victory over Garry would serve as a statement win for Edwards, putting him back in contention for the title. “If Leon beats him that then puts him at the back of the queue,” Lovell added. “And then maybe if they want one more before he fights back below. If Belal [Muhammad] still got the belt well, that would be the future move. The future plan.”
A fight between Edwards and Garry would undoubtedly draw a lot of attention. Garry, often compared to Conor McGregor due to his charisma and fighting style, has a knack for finishing fights and thrives under the spotlight. Edwards, however, is one of the most technically sound strikers in the division and possesses a wealth of experience that Garry has yet to accumulate.
The fight would offer a clash of styles, with Garry’s pressure and flashy striking pitted against Edwards’ precision and tactical acumen. For Garry, it would represent the chance to take out a former champion, cementing his position as a top contender. For Edwards, it’s the opportunity to shut down a surging challenger and reassert his dominance in the welterweight division.
It remains to be seen if the UFC will book this fight, but Lovell’s comments suggest that Edwards’ team is seriously considering the bout. As Garry continues to rise and Edwards looks to reclaim his spot at the top, a fight between the two could be inevitable.
Whether it happens or not, the prospect of Edwards vs. Garry will undoubtedly generate excitement among MMA fans, with the potential to alter the trajectory of the welterweight division. Fight.TV is here for it!
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