Watch UFC 316: Edwards vs. Makhachev — Main Card Free.

What's at Stake

This superfight represents a historic quest for double-champion status as lightweight king Islam Makhachev moves up to challenge Leon Edwards for the Welterweight title. For Edwards, a victory over the pound-for-pound great would solidify his era as one of the most dominant in the division's history, while Makhachev seeks to join the elite ranks of two-division champions.

Head-to-Head

While this is the first professional meeting between the two champions, both men enter the Octagon on incredible unbeaten streaks spanning several years. Edwards has successfully turned back the elite of the 170-pound division with his technical striking and improved grappling, while Makhachev has cleared out the lightweight contenders using a relentless blend of Sambo and refined kickboxing.

Key Players to Watch

• Leon Edwards — The champion’s elite distance management and clinch work will be vital in neutralizing the wrestling threat.
• Islam Makhachev — Moving up in weight, his ability to implement his suffocating top control against a larger opponent is the central question of the fight.
• Belal Muhammad — As a top contender in the division, his presence ringside adds pressure to the winner for a mandatory title defense.

Prediction

The bout is likely to be a tactical chess match where Edwards uses his size and defensive wrestling to keep the fight standing for long periods. However, Makhachev’s ability to chain wrestling sequences together may eventually wear down the champion, leading to a narrow unanimous decision victory for the challenger. Expect a high-level technical battle that goes the full five rounds.