UFC announces return to London with title fight expected to top card

UFC 286 is slated to take place on March 18th at London's O2.

After the success of two major sold-out shows in the UK earlier this year - which featured budding homegrown talent including Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann - UFC chief Dana White confirmed the news for fight fans, as well as teasing a potential title fight to top off the card.

In a press statement, White said: "Everyone knows how much I love our fans in the UK. We had two incredible shows in London in 2022, and this time we're bringing a world title fight with the biggest and baddest card we could put together at The O2 on March 18.

"The UK MMA scene is exploding with talent right now and I can't wait to show you guys what we have in store for you next year."

The main event in question is expected to feature current welterweight champion Leon Edwards, who shocked the world after defeating long-time kingpin Kamaru Usman with a fifth-round knockout back in August at UFC 278.

Rumours suggest Usman is due for an immediate rematch against the British champion - just the second Briton to hold a UFC belt after former middleweight champion Michael Bisping.

The trilogy clash between Edwards and Usman would headline only the second numbered event in UK UFC history, the first since Bisping defended his title against old foe Dan Henderson at UFC 204.

Tickets for UFC 268 will go on sale on January 27th.