Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev to headline UFC 300?

Khamzat Chimaev continues his unbeaten run inside the octagon and now has a record of 13-0. With his outstanding form of late, rumors are circulating that the prospect will be fighting for Leon Edwards’ title next time out.

‘Borz’ most recently outworked Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 to earn the majority decision victory. Despite fighting just once in 17 months, the 29-year-old believes he’s within touching distance of a title shot and that could come when he next steps into the cage.

Per Ariel Helwani, UFC 300 could be headlined by a blockbuster matchup between Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev. This would be ‘Rocky’s third defense of the 170 lbs title and Chimaev’s first attempt at securing UFC gold.

🚨| According to @arielhelwani, the UFC’s top choice for the #UFC300 main event would be Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev.

Other bouts in contention include:

Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya
DDP vs. Chimaev
Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad

The current holdup is Chimaev’s lack… pic.twitter.com/XGMrc8ejq7

— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) February 12, 2024

Originally, Edwards was rumored to face the deserved number-one contender, Belal Muhammad—with reports even suggesting a clash against Khabib Nurmagomedov could be in the works.

Related: Javier Mendez reacts to Khabib Nurmagomedov fighting at UFC 300 rumors

UFC 300 is still without a main event and could well be headlined by the defending welterweight king. Israel Adesanya, Conor McGregor, and other huge names have also been linked with the coveted spot on the card.

As quickly as fans began opening up to the idea of Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev, the bout has been shut down. As stated by Chimaev himself, he will not step in to face the Brit at UFC 300 as he isn’t willing to compete during Ramadan.

🚨| Khamzat Chimaev replies to a fan on Instagram saying he will NOT headline #UFC300 as he does not want to fight during Ramadan.#UFC300 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/D9hrmS0zSd

— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) February 12, 2024

Ramadan is a religious holiday followed by Muslims around the world. It will span from March 10, 2024 – April 9, 2024, meaning Muslim athletes will likely be at a disadvantage leading into the event.

UFC 300 is already poised to be one of the greatest shows in the promotion’s history. It will feature a number of high-level competitors and numerous current and former champions. The pay-per-view will get underway on April 13 at the T-Mobile Arena in Nevada.