Leon Edwards, the former UFC Welterweight Champion, has built a legacy defined by precision striking, elite fight IQ, and remarkable composure under pressure. Rising from a difficult upbringing to the pinnacle of the sport, Edwards has delivered some of the most memorable performances in welterweight history. As he continues to compete among the elite, these three fights stand out as the defining moments of his championship run.
1. Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman 2 – UFC 278 (Salt Lake City)
In one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history, Edwards captured the welterweight title with a stunning fifth-round head kick that ended Usman’s dominant championship reign. After trailing on the scorecards, Edwards delivered the perfect shot in the final minute, earning Performance of the Night honors and completing one of the sport’s most iconic comebacks. The victory transformed him from contender to world champion in unforgettable fashion.
2. Edwards vs. Colby Covington – UFC 296 (Las Vegas)
In his second title defense, Edwards showcased his complete skill set by neutralizing Colby Covington over five rounds. Mixing long-range striking, sharp counters, and strong defensive grappling, he secured a clear unanimous decision victory. The performance further established Edwards as the most technically polished welterweight of his era and solidified his legacy as a champion capable of shutting down elite pressure wrestlers.
3. Edwards vs. Nate Diaz – UFC 263 (Glendale)
Edwards delivered a dominant showing against fan favorite Nate Diaz, controlling the fight with superior striking, footwork, and clinch work across nearly five full rounds. Despite a late scare in the fifth, Edwards’ consistent performance earned him a unanimous decision win. The fight boosted his profile significantly and helped solidify his position as the next rightful title challenger at 170 pounds.