Leon Edwards has defeated Kamaru Usman for a second straight time.
The 31-year-old claimed a majority decision victory (48–46, 48–46, 47–47) on Saturday night in London, retaining the UFC welterweight title that he took from Usman last year. The duo put on a show for the boisterous crowd at the O2 Arena, who were decidedly in favour of their compatriot Edwards against Nigerian-born Usman.
Edwards declared in the days leading up to Saturday's bout that he "just can't see how" Usman would defeat him, as the champion assured that he was ready for whatever the 35-year-old legend could throw at him. And the England-raised fighter was correct in his assesment, as Edwards was prepared for his opponent's intentions to pressure him for takedowns, with the champion peppering the challenger with several dozen low kicks to keep Usman at bay.
Even when Usman was able to get in close, Edwards' takedown defence was brilliant in its execution, as the champion was frequently able to wriggle free from each of Usman's advances.
That's not to say that the challenger was soundly beaten — in fact, Usman was able to land quite a few stinging shots and he likely won two of the five rounds, but Edwards' cool execution of his gameplan was enough for the champion to retain his title.
AND STILL!!! LEON SILENCES THE DOUBTERS!!!! #UFC286 pic.twitter.com/kPEEGQChss
— UFC (@ufc) March 19, 2023
"Feels great," Edwards said on the broadcast after the fight. "Everything we've been working on last camp and stuff just clicked. I felt super super calm, from the beginning to the end."
Immediately prior to the main event, Justin Gaethje defeated Rafael Fiziev in a thriller of a lightweight fight. Gaethje left Fiziev bloodied and bruised as both men connected with heavy shots, but it was Gaethje who would take a majority decision (29–28, 29–28, 28–28).
Also on the main card, Gunnar Nelson submitted Bryan Barberena in the first round after an early takedown that led to an armbar. As well, Jennifer Maia topped Casey O'Neill and Marvin Vettori defeated Roman Dolidze, both by unanimous decision.
