Edwards outpoints Usman to retain UFC welterweight belt. The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigerian and World News

Britain’s Leon Edwards emerged victorious to retain his welterweight title at UFC 286 after an intense five-round fight with Nigeria’s Kamal Usman on Saturday.

Edwards recorded a majority victory on the judges’ scorecards at UFC 286.

When the two met in Salt Lake City last August, he beat Usman in sensational fashion.

The Briton knocked out the Nigerian with a stunning fifth-round headkick to win the title, but Usman was soon granted a rematch.

This time the fight was to take place at Edwards’ home ground, and London’s O2 Arena gave a hero’s welcome as he entered the octagon.

The crowd chanted his “Rocky” nickname as he circled his opponent in the first round, picking shots and landing a heavy body kick towards the end of the frame.

Usman, who is known for his superior wrestling skills, put Edwards on the mat twice midway through the second round.

But the Jamaican-born British man has managed to bounce back each time.

Usman knocked his opponent to the ground again early in the third round, and referee Herb Dean deducted a point for grabbing Edwards by the fence as he tried to get back up.

With the two fighters tired, the fourth round turned into a cage-like affair as Usman applied pressure and Edwards continued to attack the body with kicks.

He hoped to set up the same head kick finish that ended the previous matchup.

Edwards unwrapped that precise kick twice early in the final round, but this time Usman emerged unscathed.

Undaunted, Edwards combined body shots, vicious uppercuts and masterful defensive wrestling to finally stop his opponent.

In the co-main event, USA’s Justin Gaethje claimed a majority victory over Kazakhstan’s lightweight Rafael Fizhiyev after displaying the high-level striking of both fighters in three thrilling rounds.