MMA news: Leon Edwards to get back on track with a win over Sean Brady

The UFC returns to London this Saturday as former welterweight champion Leon Edwards looks to bounce back with a victory against Sean Brady.

A win for either fighter would put them on the cusp of a title shot, with Edwards currently ranked No. 1 in the division and Brady sitting at No. 5.

For Edwards, this fight is an opportunity to prove that his loss to Belal Muhammad was just an off-night.

Brady is expected to bring a similar wrestling-heavy approach, applying forward pressure in an attempt to neutralise Edwards' striking.

The Brit will be hoping for a performance more reminiscent of his masterclass against Kamaru Usman in their trilogy fight - the last time he fought at The O2 Arena.

That night, he showcased his ability to defend takedowns against one of the sport’s best wrestlers, and he'll look to do the same against Brady.

Here, Sports News Blitz MMA expert Niall Togher breaks down how Edwards' upcoming fight against Brady is a pivotal moment in his career as he looks to rebound from his recent loss.

The road back to the belt for Edwards

Despite being just 33, this fight feels like a pivotal moment in Edwards’ career.

If he hopes to reclaim the welterweight title, he must prove he can consistently handle opponents whose primary strategy is to take him down. Flat performances - like the one against Muhammad - cannot become a pattern.

At his best, Edwards is arguably the most skilled striker in the 170-pound division, boasting a diverse arsenal of attacks.

His kicks, knees, and elbows are particularly dangerous, and they’ll be crucial tools when Brady looks to close the distance and control him against the cage.

However, Edwards is far from just a striker. Over the years, his wrestling and grappling have improved significantly, making him one of the most well-rounded fighters in the division.

He has not only held his own but even found success in grappling exchanges against elite wrestlers like Kamaru Usman, Colby Covington and Muhammad.

That said, Edwards doesn’t always use his grappling to his advantage.

After defending a takedown, he often re-engages, attempting takedowns of his own against superior wrestlers on paper.

While this approach has worked at times, it has also led to reversals - situations where disengaging and striking would have been the safer choice.

Against a high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner like Brady, this could be a costly mistake. If Edwards gets caught in a scramble, he risks exposing his back.

Instead, the smarter path would be to use his striking advantage and outpoint Brady from range.

READ MORE: MMA news: Leon Edwards talks loss to Belal Muhammad and previews UFC London matchup

Can Brady get the biggest win of his career?

Since suffering his first career loss to Belal Muhammad in 2022, Brady has rebounded impressively with two wins over former title challengers Kelvin Gastelum and Gilbert Burns.

While his striking may not yet be on Muhammad’s level, Brady can take key elements from the blueprint Muhammad used to defeat Edwards at UFC 304.

To win this fight, Brady must dictate the pace, constantly moving forward and applying pressure - something he showcased with his improved boxing against Burns.

Once he forces Edwards against the fence, he’ll likely look to clinch, using his physical strength to set up takedowns.

Brady’s forward pressure is essential in this fight. By closing the distance, he can limit Edwards’ kicking game and expose potential weaknesses in his boxing, just as Muhammad did.

While it’s highly likely that Brady will take Edwards down at some point, the bigger question is whether he can keep him there.

Fighters like Kamaru Usman and Muhammad have managed to control the Englishman on the ground for extended periods, but it remains to be seen if Brady can do the same.

Unlike Edwards’ recent opponents - Usman, Covington, and Muhammad - Brady presents a greater submission threat.

If Edwards makes the mistake of initiating a takedown rather than disengaging, Brady could capitalise by taking his back and securing a submission.

Final Prediction

Despite Brady’s impressive performance against Gilbert Burns, Edwards has proven in the past that he can handle wrestling-heavy opponents when he’s at his best.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see Edwards taken down at some point in this fight - or even lose a round or two.

However, his speed, superior kickboxing, and proven takedown defence should be enough to secure a decision victory, provided he’s still the fighter who rose through the ranks to claim the title.

Fighter - Leon Edwards

Method - Decision

READ NEXT: England analysis: Thomas Tuchel tactical overview and predicted line-up vs Albania