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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Leon Edwards shocks world with stunning KO of Kamaru Usman at UFC 278

Leon Edwards has become only the second ever UFC champion from Great Britain after claiming the welterweight title with a shock last-minute kick to the head to beat Kamaru Usman in Salt Lake City.

The 30-year-old, from Birmingham, looked to be heading to defeat at Vivint Arena after being out-wrestled by the reigning champion only to unleash a left kick to the side of Usman’s head, knocking his opponent out, with just a minute of the bout left.

Edwards, who lost to Usman in 2015, is only the second Briton to become a UFC champion, following Michael Bisping in 2016.

He said in his post-fight octagon interview: "I can't put it into words. It's been a long four years. They all doubted me, they all said I couldn't do it. Look at me now!

(AP)

"I'm from the trenches, I'm built like this. I go until the battle is done.

"I do it for everyone coming behind me. I told you it was possible. We can win a belt, from the UK. Look at me now. I told you I could do it.

"God is on my side. I said it all week, I felt like this is my moment. Everything that happened in the past - two years out, the pandemic, all of it. They all said I couldn't come back and do it.

"There is no ring rust. Now look at me, the champion of the world. I was born in Jamaica with nothing, look at me now."

Former UFC champion Conor McGregor wrote on Twitter: "An amazing scene to witness! Huge congrats Leon! A real good, solid and dedicated mixed martial artist!

"The UK's second only UFC champion! Incredible! Congrats mate!"

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