Former Champion Leon Edwards Faces Carlos Prates at UFC 322 in New York

Leon Edwards will return to the Octagon at UFC 322 on November 15 at Madison Square Garden, aiming to end a two-fight losing streak by facing Brazilian welterweight Carlos Prates. Edwards, a former welterweight champion, lost his title to Belal Muhammad and then suffered a submission defeat against Sean Brady, both on home soil. Prates, coming off a knockout win over Geoff Neal and a previous decision loss to Ian Machado Garry, has a strong striking record with five knockouts in the UFC. UFC 322 will also feature two title fights: Jack Della Maddalena defending his welterweight title against Islam Makhachev, who recently vacated his lightweight belt to compete at welterweight, and Valentina Shevchenko defending her flyweight title against Zhang Weili. A win for Edwards could move him closer to another title shot, while Prates looks to build on his recent success. Fans and analysts note that Edwards’ grappling will be crucial in countering Prates’ striking and improving his chances of victory.