UFC 278: Edwards Defeats Usman

On Saturday, Leon Edwards made history by knocking out Kamaru Usman in Salt Lake City, Utah, to win the welterweight title at UFC 278. At the end of the fifth stanza, Edwards, 30, landed a knockout kick to the head of Usman, 35, sending him to victory. This kick was heroic since Usman was ahead on points after winning three rounds, and the only way Edwards would win was by thoroughly stopping him.

At a post-fight press conference, Edwards was joyful as he narrated how the clean head kick had delivered victory. He said, “The way he folded after the kick, I thought he was done.” Though he was glad to win the 170-pound championship, Edwards was not happy with his performance. “I did not feel good in there tonight; it was one of my worst performances,” he said. Going into the ring, Edwards knew it would not be a simple match because Kamaru, his opponent, is equally good.

After losing three consecutive rounds, Edwards needed a strong mind to remain focused and deliver a clean finish. His finish remains one of the year’s best knockouts and the most incredible comebacks. Edwards further stated that his body was not coordinating well during his first round, but his coach urged him to remain focused and fight to the end.

During the press conference, Edwards urged everyone to believe in themselves, even if they are down; they should work hard to find their way to the top. “I fought Kamaru seven years ago, but I considered this a new fight,” he said. Edwards trained in Birmingham, creating clean combinations that played out in his match.

Edwards remains objective with his career, ensuring the wins do not get to his head. He is already thinking about his next match, indicating that the belt does not belong to anyone. Only the best have the belt but can only do that for a limited period. Edwards says his opponent, Kamaru gave his best, while he gave his worst but still won in the end. The sensational knockout kick will remain in the minds of many sports lovers.