Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson looks at his corner in-between rounds of a fight in 2019.
Stephen Thompson says Leon Edwards deserves title shot before Jorge Masvidal
After Jorge Masvidal knocked out both Darren Till and Ben Askren, many thought he would be next in line for a title shot. However, he is only 2-2 in his last four which may hinder his case. Especially with Colby Covington and Leon Edwards on a roll, Stephen Thompson believes it is the Englishman that deserves that shot over Masvidal.
“Leon Edwards is on an 8 fight winning streak, wow,” he said backstage after UFC 240. “So he could possibly be fighting for the title. I know everyone’s talking Masvidal, but he’s had two wins and his third loss was me at MSG. I think there are other people more deserving of the title, but he’s put on some good shows and knocked out some good people so you never know.”
“Rocky” Edwards lost to the current champion, Kamaru Usman at a UFC Fight Night four years ago. Since then he has developed his skill and hasn’t lost a fight. His most recent win was against Rafael dos Anjos at UFC San Antonio last month.
“He’s doing very well in the division (Edwards), so I think at the top, maybe him,” said Thompson. “I think under him, maybe Masvidal. He’s got some great knockout, but it really depends what the UFC and fans want. And the UFC is going towards what the fans want nowadays, so it could be Masvidal but I think Leon Edwards has definitely proven he deserves a shot at the title.”
Of course, the UFC could easily do Covington vs Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal vs. Leon Edwards on the same card where the winners would fight each other. Yet, if Stephen Thompson had a choice, it would be the Englishman fighting for the title next as he says he deserves it. Whether or not that will happen is to be seen.
