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While technical proficiency and physical conditioning are important attributes for UFC fighters, the intangible qualities of heart, determination, and the ability to thrive under pressure are often what separate champions from other competitors. This mental toughness helps an athlete to remain focused and composed in high-stress situations, effectively managing that stress and responding to adversity during intense competition. Not only does a fighter’s resilience allow them to push through physical and mental fatigue, but it can inspire and electrify audiences. Arguably, this mentality is what makes MMA so appealing to the masses, even for those who might never train or fight.
Following Leon Edwards' recent defeat at UFC London, UFC analyst and former fighter Din Thomas offered a candid critique of the ex-welterweight champion's performance. Speaking on the "On Paper with Anthony Smith" podcast, Thomas questioned Edwards' fighting spirit.
UFC BeltGary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
On the podcast, Din stated, "I still believe that skill for skill, like his body type and all that, that he was a great champion. He's a great fighter. He's still top-five material. But I just don't think that Leon in his heart is a real true fighter."
Edwards, known as "Rocky," faced Sean Brady in a highly anticipated bout that ended in a fourth-round submission loss for the former champion. This defeat marked Edwards' second consecutive loss, following his previous setback against Belal Muhammad. Thomas, who was cornering Brady in the fight, believed that despite Edwards' technical skills and athleticism, there seemed to be a lack of aggression and resilience often seen in fighters like Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier.
"I think he's an athlete. I think he's a performer. I think he's creative," Thomas elaborated. "I think in the gym, he probably eats up everybody. He's super magical. I just think when the lights come on and it's time for him to really fight, despite not being a true fighter, he was still that good."
The fight statistics support Thomas's observations. Brady dominated the fight, completing five out of seven takedown attempts and landing 221 of 295 total strikes. In stark contrast, Edwards managed to land only 23 of 35 total strikes. This disparity highlighted Brady's control throughout the match and raised questions for Thomas about Edwards' ability to handle high-pressure situations.
This loss also has had significant implications for Edwards' standing in the welterweight division as evidenced by the UFC website’s official rankings. Edwards dropped from being the no.1 welterweight contender to the third spot, while Brady has taken his place at the no.1 contender position. Edwards has also been booted from the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings, with Arman Tsarukyan taking his no. 15 spot.
As Edwards reflects on this performance, the criticism from fans, fighters, and analysts like Din Thomas may spur a major comeback. Whether he can channel this feedback into renewed vigor and reclaim his position at the top of the division will be entirely up to him.
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Following Leon Edwards' recent defeat at UFC London, UFC analyst and former fighter Din Thomas offered a candid critique of the ex-welterweight champion's performance. Speaking on the "On Paper with Anthony Smith" podcast, Thomas questioned Edwards' fighting spirit.
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UFC BeltGary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
On the podcast, Din stated, "I still believe that skill for skill, like his body type and all that, that he was a great champion. He's a great fighter. He's still top-five material. But I just don't think that Leon in his heart is a real true fighter."
Edwards, known as "Rocky," faced Sean Brady in a highly anticipated bout that ended in a fourth-round submission loss for the former champion. This defeat marked Edwards' second consecutive loss, following his previous setback against Belal Muhammad. Thomas, who was cornering Brady in the fight, believed that despite Edwards' technical skills and athleticism, there seemed to be a lack of aggression and resilience often seen in fighters like Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier.
"I think he's an athlete. I think he's a performer. I think he's creative," Thomas elaborated. "I think in the gym, he probably eats up everybody. He's super magical. I just think when the lights come on and it's time for him to really fight, despite not being a true fighter, he was still that good."
The fight statistics support Thomas's observations. Brady dominated the fight, completing five out of seven takedown attempts and landing 221 of 295 total strikes. In stark contrast, Edwards managed to land only 23 of 35 total strikes. This disparity highlighted Brady's control throughout the match and raised questions for Thomas about Edwards' ability to handle high-pressure situations.
This loss also has had significant implications for Edwards' standing in the welterweight division as evidenced by the UFC website’s official rankings. Edwards dropped from being the no.1 welterweight contender to the third spot, while Brady has taken his place at the no.1 contender position. Edwards has also been booted from the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings, with Arman Tsarukyan taking his no. 15 spot.
As Edwards reflects on this performance, the criticism from fans, fighters, and analysts like Din Thomas may spur a major comeback. Whether he can channel this feedback into renewed vigor and reclaim his position at the top of the division will be entirely up to him.
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Related: UFC Fighter Wants to Slap 'Privileged Diva' After Heated Trash Talk Exchange
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