Explained: Does Leon Edwards have staph infection before UFC London?

UFC London star Leon Edwards addresses fan concerns over allegedly having a staph infection just a few days ahead of a fight.

Explained: Does Leon Edwards have staph infection before UFC London?

Leon Edwards shuts down concerns over staph infection (via Imago)

Leon Edwards‘ last UFC outing ended with him losing the welterweight title against Belal Muhammad at UFC 304. Now, almost one year later, the UK native is ready to make his comeback against top fighter, Sean Brady. Going into the fight, there were a few concerns about Edwards’s health and conditioning, which the fighter had finally cleared out. 

Recently, a photo of Edwards went viral, sparking concerns among fans after they noticed an injury on his right elbow. Many speculated that the UFC welterweight champion might be dealing with a staph infection – an infection common among fighters. However, Edwards has since addressed the speculation, reassuring fans that there’s nothing to worry about.

I actually did have it, this was about 6 weeks ago. Took antibiotics for it, it’s gone. I had no effects cardio-wise, I was fine. I don’t even know if it was staph, it was like a bite or something but yeah, that was 6 weeks ago, nothing affected nothing, I’m good.

Leon Edwards via UFC London Media Day 
YouTube video

Staph infections have remained a recurring concern among UFC fighters, impacting their health and performance. Recently, the bantamweight Merab Dvalishvili revealed that he suffered a serious staph infection before his title defense at UFC 311. Last year, top lightweight Benoit Saint-Denis talked about having a staph infection on his forehead just before UFC 299. 

Other than this, former middleweight champion, Sean Strickland was accused of facing a similar infection before his fight with Dricus Du Plessis. The fighter American denied the concerns, though he looked far from his ideal self at UFC 312. While Edwards doesn’t necessarily is affected by the staph, his opponent is quite doubtful about the fighters intentions. 

UFC London rival mocks Leon Edwards for his  recent comments 

At UFC 304, Leon Edwards got absolutely dominated by Belal Muhammad both on the ground and on the feet. The UK fighter looked helpless as the Palestinian champion broke him down mentally. However,  Edwards is extremely confident about his chances against Sean Brady and is already looking past the challenge. 

Leon Edwards loses to Belal Muhammad at UFC 304
Leon Edwards loses to Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 (via X)

‘Rocky’ was recently observed talking about the champion Muhammad and potentially fighting in a title rematch. According to Edwards, Muhammad is a boring champion who has developed an ego after UFC 304. Brady, on the other hand, doesn’t think it’s the right approach from Edwards for the upcoming fight. 

I think that’s a bad look on Leon, to be thinkin’ about other people when all I’m thinkin’ about is fighting him. He’s thinking about number one contenders, getting back at Belal and talking s*** about Belal. He’s got someone who is trying to kill him Saturday night, in front of him. He has more things to be concerned about than being the number-one contender in the division.

Sean Brady via UFC London Media Day 
YouTube video

Brady is currently ranked #5 in the welterweight division with an impressive two-fight win streak. The Philly-based fighter is extremely motivated to beat ‘Rocky’ and potentially become a title contender. Brady has good submission technique and can definitely use it against Edwards, who lacks in takedown defense. 

Can Leon Edwards reclaim his welterweight championship?

Leon Edwards’ chances of recovering the welterweight belt are dependent on his development as a fighter and the competition at 170 pounds. His excellent striking and combat IQ make him a tough opponent. However, the division is filled with rising talents such as Shavkat Rakhmonov, and prospective rematches with Kamaru Usman and Belal Muhammad.  

Leon Edwards doesn't have that mentality
Leon Edwards doesn’t have that mentality (via MMA Fighting)

If Edwards can keep up his fast counter-striking and takedown defense, he has a good chance of recovering the belt. However, his lack of determination once the going gets tough remains a major weakness. Most importantly, Edwards succumbs to the pressure put on by wrestlers, and needs to attack proactively rather than just waiting to counter.

Related: Leon Edwards Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife, and House