Former welterweight champion Leon “Rocky” Edwards returns to action this Saturday at UFC 322, where he’ll face rising Brazilian contender Carlos Prates in a pivotal matchup at Madison Square Garden.
“I think he’s the first striker for like four years I think. When you’re fighting a striker you can flow a bit more. It’s a more entertaining fight,” Edwards told reporters including Cageside Press on Wednesday.
“I feel like he’s a good opponent to getting back to where I left off.”
Edwards (22-5) may no longer hold the title, which means fewer obligations than a headlining champion defending his belt on a massive card like UFC 322. Still, he admits he’d gladly trade the lighter workload to be back in that position.
“If I had a choice I’d be at the top of the bill also. It is what it is,” Edwards said.
Edwards has heard the talk surrounding Brazil’s rising star, but he’s not buying into the hype. The former champion believes UFC 322 will serve as a reality check for Prates.
“Skills for skills I’m the better fighter, better athlete. I’m going and remind him of who I am. Who has he fought? The first time he moved up it was Ian (Garry) and Ian beat him. His last fight I don’t know what Geoff Neal was doing,” he said.
“Walking high guard, walking flat-footed, walking just like that. I think he’s in for a rude awakening.”
Watch the entire media day scrum with Leon Edwards above. He faces Carlos Prates at UFC 322 on Saturday night.
