Jorge Masvidal, a prominent figure in the UFC welterweight division, is plotting his return to the Octagon in 2025, potentially as early as March at UFC London. His target? None other than former welterweight champion Leon Edwards, a rival with whom Masvidal shares a volatile history. This prospective matchup stems from a notorious backstage altercation in 2019, where Masvidal struck Edwards post-fight, leaving a visible cut under Edwards’ eye. The incident, captured on video, fueled a simmering animosity between the two fighters, with Edwards expressing a desire for retribution even years later. While their paths haven’t crossed inside the cage, this potential clash offers a compelling narrative of unresolved conflict, adding an electrifying dimension to the already competitive welterweight landscape.
Masvidal’s comeback aspirations follow a four-fight losing streak, his last appearance being a defeat against Colby Covington. This period of inactivity, coupled with his age (40), positions him as a considerable underdog against Edwards. However, Masvidal remains a recognizable name in combat sports, carrying a significant fan base and a history of delivering exciting fights. For Edwards, a victory against Masvidal could serve as a confidence booster following his title loss to Belal Muhammad. It also provides a platform to showcase his skills and reassert his dominance in the division, particularly on a high-profile card like UFC London, a key market for the UFC.
The potential benefits of this matchup extend beyond the fighters themselves. For the UFC, the clash between Masvidal and Edwards brings several advantages. The existing rivalry generates inherent interest and buzz, potentially attracting a larger audience and boosting pay-per-view sales. Moreover, a dominant performance by Edwards, a UK native, could further solidify his star power in the region, strengthening the UFC’s presence in the lucrative London market. Conversely, a Masvidal victory, albeit an upset, would revitalize his career and create fresh storylines, potentially leading to more lucrative fights in the future.
The timing of this potential bout aligns with Edwards’ return to action following his title loss. While he has been selective in choosing his next opponent, a fight against Masvidal presents a compelling opportunity to rebound and regain momentum. Additionally, Masvidal’s targeted return in March 2025 coincides with the UFC’s plans for a London card, a strategic move to maximize the event’s appeal. This convergence of factors, including the fighters’ availability and the event’s location, makes the Masvidal-Edwards clash a highly probable scenario.
Adding further intrigue to the situation, Colby Covington, a shared rival of both Masvidal and Edwards, is scheduled to headline UFC Tampa against Joaquin Buckley. This fight, taking place before the potential Masvidal-Edwards showdown, could indirectly influence the narrative surrounding their potential encounter. Covington’s performance and outcome might inadvertently add fuel to the fire, further amplifying the anticipation for a Masvidal-Edwards clash. The interconnectedness of these fighters and their rivalries creates a ripple effect across the welterweight division, keeping fans engaged and invested in the unfolding storylines.
The UFC Tampa card itself features a diverse lineup of fighters across various weight classes, showcasing the depth and talent within the organization. From established veterans like Cub Swanson to rising prospects like Daniel Marcos, the card offers a blend of experience and emerging talent. This mix ensures exciting matchups and provides a platform for fighters to prove themselves and climb the ranks. While Covington vs. Buckley serves as the main event, the undercard boasts several intriguing bouts, promising a night of thrilling action for fight fans. The outcomes of these fights could also have implications for future matchups and the overall landscape of their respective divisions, adding another layer of intrigue to the event.
