Chael Sonnen explains why fighting in London won't be an advantage for Leon Edwards
Chael Sonnen has suggested that Leon Edwards won't have an advantage against Kamaru Usman despite their rumored trilogy fight likely taking place in Edwards' native England. The Edwards-Usman series of fights is currently tied at 1-1.
Reigning UFC welterweight champion Edwards is expected to defend the title against Usman at UFC 286 at the O2 Arena in London, England, on March 18. Many believe England's Edwards would have a home-court edge over Usman, who's from the U.S.
Regardless, MMA fighter-turned-analyst Chael Sonnen seemingly disagrees with that hypothesis. In a recent edition of Beyond the Fight, Sonnen insinuated that unlike in other sports, the purported home-court advantage in MMA is a misconception.
He opined that Leon Edwards would probably feel significant pressure fighting on home turf, whereas Kamaru Usman wouldn't because he isn't fighting at home. 'The Bad Guy' stated:
"[MMA is] the only sport in the world where there is no such thing as a home-court advantage; the only sport is this one. It is not an advantage to be fighting at home. It is not an advantage to be fighting in front of your friends. It is not an advantage to carry the media and have everybody that you've ever told you're a tough guy come out to see you in person."
"Oh, by the way, and that's only after they asked you to get them tickets. I mean, I'm just sharing for you -- There's a lot of pressure that goes on you, and there's going to be a lot of pressure that's going to be removed from Kamaru Usman. It is not going to be the other way where he's flying into enemy territory."
Watch Sonnen discuss the topic at 2:23 in the video below:
Leon Edwards on Kamaru Usman's rumored hand injury ahead of their potential fight at UFC 286
While the UFC is yet to officially announce the trilogy matchup for UFC 286, Leon Edwards recently revealed that he's been preparing for the anticipated matchup. Speaking to UK MMA great Michael Bisping, 'Rocky' also addressed the rumors of Usman's broken hand.
Kamaru Usman addressed the crowd after at Face Off FN. Still seems to be nursing a hand injury. https://t.co/K4t5SndtwL
Leon Edwards indicated that he's preparing for Kamaru Usman but can also deal with any possible changes, such as their fight potentially falling apart, if and when that happens.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that he's presently focused on fighting 'The Nigerian Nightmare' in their trilogy in London. Edwards said:
"Yeah, a hundred percent [I'm fighting Kamaru Usman at UFC 286]. That's what I've been told, that's what my team's been told. I spoke to the UFC last week, I think, and they said the fight is on. He's already training for the fight."
Watch Edwards' assessment below: