Watch UFC 326: Edwards vs. Rakhmonov — Main Card Free.

What's at Stake

The undisputed UFC welterweight championship is on the line as Leon Edwards seeks to defend his crown against the division's most feared rising contender, Shavkat Rakhmonov. This historic matchup represents a classic clash of styles between a highly technical striker and an unstoppable finisher, with the winner cementing their status as the absolute king of the 170-pound division. For Edwards, a victory secures his legacy among the great welterweight champions, while Rakhmonov aims to keep his perfect professional record intact and capture UFC gold.

Head-to-Head

While Edwards and Rakhmonov have never shared the Octagon before, both fighters enter this championship bout with immense momentum. Edwards has proven his elite caliber with a long unbeaten streak, including historic victories over Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington to solidify his reign. Rakhmonov has stormed through the welterweight rankings with a flawless finishing rate, securing notable stoppage victories over top-tier contenders like Geoff Neal and Stephen Thompson to earn his shot at the title.

Key Players to Watch

• Leon Edwards — The reigning champion relies on world-class striking, elite distance management, and vastly underrated takedown defense to neutralize aggressive opponents.
• Shavkat Rakhmonov — The undefeated challenger boasts a 100% finish rate in his professional career, utilizing relentless grappling pressure and clinical submission skills.
• Belal Muhammad — The top-ranked contender looms large in the division, keeping a close eye on this matchup as the logical next challenger for the undisputed belt.

Prediction

This championship bout will likely be determined by who can dictate the range and tempo of the fight. Edwards has the technical striking and footwork to frustrate the challenger early, but Rakhmonov's relentless pressure and elite grappling transitions present a unique threat over five rounds. Expect Rakhmonov to eventually find a breakthrough in the championship rounds, securing a late submission victory to become the new undisputed welterweight champion.