UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards expresses his desire for the opportunity to headline a stadium show in his hometown. Following his successful title defense against Colby Covington at UFC 296, Edwards was acknowledged during halftime at Aston Villa’s home victory over Burnley in December at Villa Park, Birmingham.
The fighter received a personalized Aston Villa home kit shirt adorned with “Champ” and the number 1 on the back.
Having moved to Birmingham from Jamaica during childhood, Edwards holds a deep connection to the city and envisions the chance to compete in the renowned soccer arena.
Reflecting on his aspirations, Edwards shared his thoughts on the “Up Front With Simon Jordan” podcast, stating, “There’s like bucket list venues that you get in your mind as an athlete. When I first moved to the U.K., I lived behind the Villa stadium in Aston, so I’d love to, as a 360-degree) moment, headline Villa Park back home to defend my world title. I think that, for me, would be the icing on the cake.”
Despite his recent fight with Covington being initially linked to UFC 295 in New York, it eventually took place in a pay-per-view event a month later in Las Vegas.
Edwards remains optimistic about the prospect of fighting in New York, expressing his desire to compete at Madison Square Garden (MSG), a venue he was meant to feature in last November.
Alternatively, he mentions the appeal of fighting in Saudi Arabia due to lucrative opportunities. Edwards views these venues as essential to ticking off his bucket list and achieving his goal of being recognized as the best in his sport.
