‘Rocky’ is facing a tough situation after two losses, raising significant questions about his future.
Leon Edwards suffered a dominant defeat against Sean Brady at UFC London this past Saturday at the O2 Arena.
While Michael Bisping suggested a fight with Ian Machado Garry, Edwards needs considerable effort to return to title contention, regardless of his next opponent.
Colby Covington`s suggestion that Edwards should retire seems extreme, but it`s clear the former champion needs to make substantial changes.
One suggestion for Edwards is a complete change of environment to start fresh after his disappointing performance at home.
Jon Anik says he can see Leon Edwards moving up to middleweight for a few more fights
In a recent interview, UFC commentator Jon Anik discussed his predictions for Leon Edwards` next steps.
Anik doubts that Edwards will face top welterweight contenders again soon.
Although there are still potential fights for the 33-year-old in welterweight, the main question is whether ‘Rocky’ has the drive to climb back to the top, especially considering his previous long journey.
Anik proposed that Edwards might move to the middleweight division for new challenges and opponents.
Even if Edwards` title ambitions are uncertain, moving to middleweight could offer exciting fights and a renewed focus.
“I don’t think he’s going to fight Ian Machado Garry. I think Leon Edwards will reset and move up to middleweight to find a big name or fight and see if he can have a couple of good fights at 185-pounds. But regarding chasing the championship belt, I’m not sure about that.”
Jon Anik says Leon Edwards might not even show up to his own Hall of Fame induction
The current discussion around Leon Edwards centers on his motivation after another tough fight where he seemed unable to turn things around.
It`s not just that ‘Rocky’ has lost two fights in a row after a long winning streak and title reign, but also that he hasn`t appeared particularly motivated in his last two performances.
During the same interview, Anik mentioned that while Edwards will likely be inducted into the Hall of Fame, he`s unsure if Edwards will be enthusiastic about attending, given the questions surrounding his current passion for the sport.
“I think most champions who defend their belt will enter the UFC Hall of Fame. With all due respect, I don’t even know if Leon Edwards would be keen to attend his own UFC Hall of Fame induction ceremony. I`m just not sure he’s as obsessed with the sport as many other fighters are.”
