Dana White’s controversial ‘5 AM decision’ resurfaces as Leon Edwards reveals real reason for defeat

UFC superstar Leon Edwards remembers struggling at UFC 304 due to the weird fight timings set by CEO Dana White.

Dana White’s controversial ‘5 AM decision’ resurfaces as Leon Edwards reveals real reason for defeat

Leon Edwards blames Dana White's 5 am fight time for his loss at UFC 304 (via Imago/MMA Fighting)

British MMA star Leon Edwards lost his championship last year at UFC 304, falling to Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision. Muhammad dominated the fight, outclassing ‘Rocky’ over five rounds. However, Edwards believes that Dana White’s decision-making played a major role in his defeat.

UFC 304 took place inside the Co-op Live in Manchester, England, but the timing of the fight was weird. In order to comply with the US-based pay-per-view buyers, White decided to hold the event in the early morning. The Edwards vs. Muhammad main event started around 5 am, and it bothered the UK native during the fight.

My reactions were slow, you know. I could think in my head what I wanted to do, what I trained to do, but for some reason, my body and my mind just weren’t in sync as they normally are in fights. It felt like someone woke me up and said, ‘Okay, go fight.’ 

Leon Edwards via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Edwards admitted that he felt the fight was very close and considered it one of his worst performances. He doesn’t see Muhammad as a worthy opponent and believes he would win nine out of ten times in a rematch. Although he didn’t get an immediate shot at redemption, he remains determined to reclaim the title soon.

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Despite the loss, Edwards is still the #1 ranked fighter in the welterweight division and recently rejected a short notice fight against Muhammad. Currently, he is scheduled to fight top welterweight Sean Brady at UFC London and is motivated to get a win. The fighter believes a win against Brady can get him a title shot next. 

Leon Edwards wants Belal Muhammad to retire 

Going into UFC 304, Leon Edwards was the fan favorite to win against Belal Muhammad. After defeating the boogeyman of the welterweight division, Kamaru Usman, twice, Edwards’ confidence was at an all-time high. He was a superior striker, and many expected him to knock out ‘Remember The Name’, but the reality was different.

Leon Edwards isn't a fan of Belal Muhammad
Leon Edwards isn’t a fan of Belal Muhammad (via X)

Muhammad had a different plan and dominated the British fighters on the ground from the beginning of the fight. He maintained the pressure for five rounds without giving any opportunity for Edwards to come back. Even months after the bout, the animosity between both fighters is still palpable, which can be observed by Edwards’ comments. 

He said if he lost he would’ve retired. I wish this guy f***ing retired, he’s annoying. It doesn’t look right on him, the belt.

Leon Edwards via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Muhammad has often faced criticism from fans for having a ‘boring’ fighting style, largely due to the lack of finishes on his record. As a pressure fighter, he dominates opponents with relentless pace and control, but most of his wins come by decision. However, knowing that fans crave highlight-reel finishes, Muhammad is determined to change that narrative.

Before the fight, Edwards didn’t take Muhammad seriously and even made fun of his fighting style. Particularly his striking, which Muhammad considers as ‘Canelo hands‘. However, during the fight, he outstruck Edwards, putting on a complete performance.

Can Leon Edwards regain his lost glory?

Leon Edwards is regarded as one of the best strikers in the welterweight division. However, fans have often complained about his lack of temperament in touch battles. At UFC 304, he had a mid-fight argument with his coach, which made headlines on the internet.

Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad at UFC 304
Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 (via X)

Belal Muhammad has also mentioned that the fighter lacks the heart of a champion. As a result, he couldn’t take pressure. In order for Edwards to beat Muhammad, he needs to intensively work on his takedown defense. However, Muhammad’s style will again be too overwhelming for the former champion.