Sean Brady argues he deserves the next welterweight title shot after defeating Leon Edwards and becoming the No. 1 contender, but is open to fighting Shavkat Rakhmonov to solidify his position if necessary, while awaiting the outcome of UFC 315’s championship bout between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena.
Sean Brady made a compelling case for the next welterweight title shot after dominating and submitting former champion Leon Edwards at UFC London. It wasn’t just a win; it was a definitive statement.
Brady became the first to finish Edwards in his career, adding an exclamation point to a lopsided performance. Now, he’s jumped to the No. 1 spot in the UFC rankings, with only champion Belal Muhammad ahead of him.
Shavkat Rakhmonov, previously declared as the No. 1 contender, fell one spot despite his win over Ian Machado Garry. Unfortunately for Rakhmonov, an injury sidelined him from UFC 315, giving Jack Della Maddalena the opportunity instead.
Brady insists he should be next in line, regardless of past promises. “I am the No. 1 contender,” Brady told MMA Fighting. “There’s a 1 next to my name.”
During his three-fight win streak, Brady defeated not only Edwards but also Gilbert Burns and Kelvin Gastelum. Meanwhile, Rakhmonov’s victories came against Garry, Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, and Geoff Neal.
On paper, Brady believes his résumé is more impressive. However, if the UFC wants him to fight Rakhmonov to settle the debate, he’s open to it. “I’m not going to wait around,” Brady said.
He knows he’s the best fighter on this planet and is ready to prove it against Shavkat if necessary. But come May 10, if the UFC says he’s next for the title shot, then that’s what’s next for him.
At UFC 315, Muhammad defends his welterweight title against Della Maddalena, with Brady watching ringside. Ideally, he’d face the winner for a title fight but isn’t afraid of facing Rakhmonov if needed.
Rakhmonov may have looked invincible during his undefeated rise, yet Brady sees flaws he can exploit. Watching Rakhmonov struggle against Garry last December only confirmed his belief further.
“Everyone has holes,” Brady noted, citing examples like Khamzat Chimaev‘s struggles with Gilbert Burns and Shavkat’s challenges with Ian Machado Garry. “Eventually you get exposed.”
Brady plans to stay active rather than stagnate waiting for opportunities that might not materialize. If no title shot comes soon, he’ll tackle the next best challenge available.
But no decisions will be made until after UFC 315 concludes and it’s clear whether Muhammad or Della Maddalena remains champion. “That fight’s going to happen,” Brady said confidently.
“We’re making a decision after that,” he added. “Nothing’s getting made before.” He knows it’s wise to wait and see how things unfold before committing to any path forward.