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As an MMA fan, you know that Leon Edwards gave a terrible performance in his welterweight title fight against Kamaru Usman eight months ago. But he redeemed himself with a much better performance at UFC 286, defending his UFC 170-pound championship in front of a home crowd in London.
Leon Edwards Defeats Kamaru Usman to Defend Welterweight Title
Leon Edwards successfully defended his UFC welterweight title against Kamaru Usman in front of a home crowd at the O2 Arena in London. Edwards won by majority decision with two judges scoring the fight 48-46 in his favor and a third scoring it a 47-47 draw. This was a different fight from the last time the two met, where Edwards won by knockout after landing a head kick.
Edwards' Composed Performance and Anti-Wrestling Tactics
In this fight, Edwards was composed and energetic, visibly leading the dance for most of the fight. He used his anti-wrestling tactics to defend Usman's takedown attempts and force him to exert a lot of energy. Edwards outlanded Usman in total strikes and even when Usman did manage to take him to the floor, he couldn't keep him down or generate much offense.
Usman Admits It Was a Close Fight and Promises a Rematch
After the fight, Usman admitted that he felt he had won but gave praise to Edwards and his great game plan. He promised that he was not done and that he would see Edwards again. Usman and Edwards fought each other in a nontitle fight in 2015, where Usman won, and they have a history of respect for each other.
Edwards' Next Title Defense Against Colby Covington
UFC president Dana White announced in the post-fight news conference that Edwards' next title defense would be against former interim champion Colby Covington. Covington was in London for the fight and immediately started calling Edwards out. Edwards accused Covington of ducking him for years as he climbed the UFC's ranks
Edwards Fights His Way to a Great Champion and a Hell of a Guy
Edwards' win solidifies him as a great champion and a hell of a guy, according to Usman. The English crowd chanted Edwards' phrase, "Head shot, dead," after he knocked Usman out in their last fight, and they continued to support him in this one. Edwards' anti-wrestling tactics and efficient striking gave him the edge he needed to win, and his next fight against Covington promises to be an exciting one.
