Leon Edwards has sparked backlash from UK fight fans after sharing his views on a potential fight between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, bringing the focus back to the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC heavyweight scene. The heavyweight stars were scheduled to clash in a unification bout before Jones announced his retirement, only to reverse course two weeks later by re-entering the drug testing pool and signaling a comeback.
Edwards confidently stated that if a prime Jon Jones had faced Tom Aspinall, the American legend would have prevailed, despite Aspinall currently holding the undisputed heavyweight title.
Details From Edwards’ Discussion with Carl Froch at IBA Pro 7
Speaking with boxing icon Carl Froch at the IBA Pro 7 event in Istanbul, Turkey, Edwards was prompted to compare Jones and Aspinall, both representing their respective countries. When asked which fighter he would choose in a prime-versus-prime scenario, Edwards responded unequivocally in favor of Jones.
“Prime, I’ll go, Jon Jones,” Edwards said firmly. He praised Jones as the greatest fighter ever, highlighting his admiration for the American combatant’s career.
While acknowledging Aspinall’s current status, Edwards noted,
“Tom is for now, he is the guy now.”
However, he expressed that if Aspinall fought Jones at this moment, the Englishman’s speed and power could pose serious challenges. Edwards added,
“I think the speed, power he carries, and the way he moves in there, he would’ve gave Jon Jones problems. It would’ve been a good fight.”
Edwards also denied claims that Jones was avoiding a fight with Aspinall, asserting that Jones did not duck his prospective challenger.
Fan Reactions and Fallout Following Edwards’ Comments
Following the release of Edwards’ remarks in a widely shared social media clip, strong reactions emerged from UFC supporters who perceived his opinion as disloyal. Fans quickly expressed their discontent by labelling Edwards a “traitor” and criticizing his stance online.
One fan bluntly wrote, “Leon you little traitor,” while another simply called him a “traitor bum.”
Other comments intensified the rebuke:
“As a Brit, we now don’t claim him,”
one user stated, rejecting Edwards’ allegiance due to his support of Jones.
Additional angry fans posted remarks such as
“Wow Leon, you’re lowkey a traitor wtf,”
and another called Edwards a “bum.” One more commenter dismissed his understanding of fighting entirely, saying,
“Leon hasn’t a clue about fighting.”
Implications for Edwards and the UFC Heavyweight Landscape
Leon Edwards’ unexpected endorsement of Jon Jones over the reigning heavyweight champion has stirred debate and tension among fans, highlighting the divisive nature of fighter allegiances within the UFC community. With Jones poised to return and Aspinall maintaining his hold on the division, speculation around a showdown between the two will likely continue. Edwards’ candid remarks may impact his relationship with fans, especially in the UK, as the landscape of heavyweight MMA remains dynamic and unpredictable.