Watch UFC 324: Edwards vs. Makhachev — Main Card Free.

What's at Stake

This superfight represents a historic quest for "champ-champ" status as the lightweight ruler Islam Makhachev moves up to challenge Leon Edwards for the Welterweight Championship. For Edwards, a victory would solidify his legacy as one of the greatest 170-pounders in history, while Makhachev aims to join the elite ranks of two-division titleholders.

Head-to-Head

This is the first professional meeting between the two champions, marking a clash of styles between Edwards’ elite technical striking and Makhachev’s relentless Sambo-based grappling. Edwards enters the bout on a long unbeaten streak characterized by clinical distance management, while Makhachev has dominated the lightweight division with a mix of improved striking and world-class wrestling momentum.

Key Players to Watch

• Leon Edwards — The champion’s ability to utilize lateral movement and clinch knees will be vital in keeping the challenger at bay.
• Islam Makhachev — The lightweight king must prove his strength translates to the higher weight class to secure his trademark takedowns.
• Belal Muhammad — As a common thread and potential future challenger for both, his presence ringside adds tension to the divisional landscape.

Prediction

The bout is expected to be a tactical chess match where Edwards finds success early with leg kicks and long-range jabs. However, Makhachev’s pressure and superior grappling control are likely to take over in the championship rounds, leading to a narrow unanimous decision victory for the challenger.