Leon Edwards becomes just the second British fighter to win a UFC world title with a stunning upset victory over welterweight champion Kamaru Usman.
The 30-year-old was a considerable underdog against one of the sport's current stars, partly due to his defeat to Usman in a bout back in 2015.
Edwards, who was born in Jamaica but has lived in England for over 20 years, had been on course for another unanimous points defeat to a fighter who was making the sixth defence of his world crown.
However, with less than a minute remaining of fifth and final round, Edwards threw a straight left to disguise a high-kick which knocked out his opponent.
The kick heard 'round the world 🌎
— UFC (@ufc) August 21, 2022
[ @Leon_EdwardsMMA | #UFC278 ] pic.twitter.com/GfmX7pBnj6
The referee immediately waved off the fight, crowning Edwards as world champion and the first British UFC champion since Michael Bisping in 2016.
Speaking after the fight in Salt Lake City, Edwards said: "You all doubted me, saying I couldn't do it - look at me now. I'm from the trenches. I'm built like this. I've been doubted my whole life but look at me now.
While Edwards advances to 20 wins and three defeats, Usman drops to 20 victories and two losses having suffered his first defeat for nine years.
Darren Plant
