The UFC Targets London Return on July 22nd for UFC 291

The UFC has often visited England, standing as the fourth most visited country behind Canada, Brazil, and the United States. With twenty-seven events being held there, including eleven pay-per-views, it's no surprise the UFC is already looking to return there for a second time this year. Their first event this year was UFC 286: Edwards vs. Usman 3, where the hometown Welterweight Champion Leon Edwards defended his belt against the former Champion Kamaru Usman, winning via majority decision.

Leon Edwards brandishing his UFC Welterweight title after defeating Kamaru Usman at UFC 286. Credits to: Haljestam - USA TODAY Sports.

The UFC has seen many superstars fight in the octagon in England, including Anderson Silva, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Dan Hardy, Stipe Miocic, and Dustin Poirier.

The biggest headliner from England easily goes to former Middleweight Champion Michael "The Count" Bisping. The Brit headlined five UK events, spanning Birmingham, London, and Glasgow. "The Count" was also a hometown hero, going 5-0 across all his events. Bisping's biggest win in England came over Dan Henderson, where he attempted to make his first title defense. Henderson had previously won by devastating knockout, but in the rematch, Bisping would defend his title via unanimous decision.

Michael Bisping kneeing Dan Henderson during his Middleweight title defence at UFC 204. Credits to: Haljestam - USA TODAY Sports.

Though no current fights are announced for the card, some assumptions can be made. First, the Welterweight Champion of the world Leon Edwards is expected to headline this card, against the #2 ranked contender Colby Covington. Furthermore, Scottish Light-Heavyweight Paul Craig will likely return on the card, as he hinted at his return via Instagram. Craig owns two of the slickest finishes in UFC history; a triangle to TKO victory over Jamahal Hill, who suffered a broken arm, and a triangle choke submission over Nikita Krylov. Secondly, Lightweight superstar Paddy Pimblett will likely be featured on the card, too, as he's hinted multiple times about a July return. Lastly, Tom Aspinall headlined the last UFC Fight Night card in London but blew his knee out less than twenty seconds into the fight and has been recovering ever since. He hinted towards a potential return against Martin Tybura, though there are other Heavyweights like Tai Tuivasa that would make sense too.

Tom Aspinall landing a leg kick on Curtis Blaydes moments before blowing his knee out. Credits to: Haljestam - USA TODAY Sports.

Who would you like to see on the card? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.