Leon Edwards is set to defend his welterweight title for the third time against Belal Muhammad in the main event of UFC 304. The event will take place in Manchester, England, but has faced criticism from local fans due to its late start time. The early preliminary card is scheduled to begin at 11:00 p.m. local time, the preliminary card at 1:00 a.m., and the main card at 3:00 a.m., with Edwards expected to make his walk to the octagon around 5:30 a.m.
Addressing the unusual start time, Edwards explained to Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour that the time slot was originally booked for a pay-per-view event in Utah. When the location was changed to Manchester, they were unable to adjust the time due to commitments with the TV station. Edwards stated,
“I think they said the pay-per-view was already booked for Utah, right? And then they – so the slot was already booked in so when they changed it to Manchester, they couldn’t change also the time with the TV station and that’s the reason why it’s staying [at] that time, I think, so yeah.”
This explanation provides some context for the late start, indicating that the UFC’s deal with ESPN and their scheduling commitments took precedence. The decision has drawn backlash from both fans and fighters, but the logistical constraints make the situation somewhat understandable.
Meanwhile, Conor McGregor, who is set to return to the octagon after three years to face Michael Chandler in the main event of UFC 303, has criticized the welterweight title picture, including Edwards and Muhammad. McGregor expressed his discontent on Duelbits, stating,
“There’s too many decisions going on now with that Leon fella. Leon Edwards loves a decision and then he’s fighting another f**king decision guy, your man Belal. So, not great times in the welterweight title picture. 200 [pay-per-view] buys probably, not even. 150,000 buys if it’s even a pay-per-view. It’s probably not even a pay-per-view.”
Despite McGregor’s harsh comments, Edwards has indicated that he is open to giving McGregor a title shot if he defeats Chandler and Edwards retains his belt. McGregor has also shown interest in fighting for the welterweight title, aiming to become a three-division champion. Whether this matchup will materialize in the future remains to be seen, but the potential for a bout between Edwards and McGregor adds another layer of intrigue to the welterweight division.
