Khamzat Chimaev Aligns Himself for a Fight Against Leon Edwards Following Kamaru Usman’s Delayed Return

Posted on by Matt James

UFC welterweight Khamzat Chimaev has set his sights on Leon Edwards after news has emerged that Kamaru Usman is going to be out of action for a while. ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ underwent surgery on his hand and this majorly setback his timeline to return to the octagon. However, despite the delayed schedule, Usman has been one of the most active fighters who fought as recently as UFC 268 in November.

Chiefly, this is the first time Usman is taking some time away to recuperate and get his body in order after facing some stiff competition. Sawing through Gilbert Burns, Jorge Masvidal, and Colby Covington is certainly no mean task and has taken its toll on the champion.

However, the fight game must move on and there are now talks of an interim welterweight title being put up on the line. This would be a massive move and some fans believe it is unnecessary, much like UFC 265’s interim strap that was contested between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou. Only time will tell if the UFC pulls the trigger on an interim belt for the welterweight division.

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Is Khamzat Chimaev vs Leon Edwards in the pipeline?

If an interim belt comes into play, Khamzat Chimaev may be placed against Leon Edwards to determine who will reign supreme. It’s no secret that the UFC is pushing Chimaev towards a title shot, and this would put him in an ideal spot. A win over the Brit would guarantee ‘Borz’ Chimaev an opportunity to face Usman.

Stylistically, Leon Edwards has showcased great all-around skills and his prowess isn’t limited to the striking realm. However, Chimaev is a different beast on the mat and is perhaps a force that ‘Rocky’ Edwards hasn’t seen before. Leon Edwards has faced an imposing wrestler in Usman in the past and he ultimately lost that contest back in 2015.

It remains to be seen if Leon Edwards finds it meritorious to take a fight against Chimaev after having racked up an impressive win streak to this point. Facing ‘Borz’ might be a gamble he isn’t ready to sign off on. Only time will tell.