When it comes to the current scene of mixed martial arts, Leon “Rocky” Edwards is a reigning titan in the UFC welterweight division.
His latest contest saw him returning victorious over Colby Covington at UFC 296 in Las Vegas.
The match lacked notable actions, but it was Edwards’ precise strikes that outshone Covington’s efforts.
The British champion efficiently countered the American contender’s grappling attempts, giving him a significant advantage.
Everything escalated even before the fight began. Covington, known for his brash pre-game talks, insensitively commented on the murder of Edwards’ father.
This unacceptable comment resulted in backlash from fellow fighters. It also served to further fuel Edwards’ resolve to win.
Edwards relayed his emotional tumult following the incident, saying, “This guy used my dad’s murder as entertainment…It took a lot for me to calm down…After the press conference, I was crying backstage because of the rage.”
Edwards steered the game from the start, landing impactful leg kicks and keeping Covington on the backfoot.
The mood of the crowd swayed as they began to voice their impatience due to the lowered action.
Midway, Covington attempted to take down Edwards to the ground. However, with his quick reflexes, Edwards swiftly got back on his feet.
With bruising visible on Covington’s leg due to Edwards’ relentless leg kicks, Covington was left with no option but to step up his game.
As the showdown reached its climax, both fighters claimed their assurance of victory. However, it was Edwards who rightfully earned the acknowledgement of victory.
Extending his winning streak to a commendable twelve fights, just one behind George St Pierre’s welterweight record of thirteen.
A humble Edwards confessed on matching Covington’s strengths in grappling during the game.
“I know I’m the better athlete but they kept going on about cardio so I wanted to match the cardio,” said Edwards.
“I wanted to grapple with him. I’m a mixed martial artist, so I wanted to come out here and prove my case.
“I feel like I was the much better athlete and technician. He’s good, a great competitor but a dirty human being.”
Covington, on the other hand, expressed disappointment over the result and attributed it to his long lay-off from the game.
He said: “I had a long lay-off so I think a bit of ring rust had something to do with it. I feel great, I didn’t feel like I got touched. Everyone who faces adversity in life, keep going.
“People have been ducking me. Leon didn’t want to fight in his home country.
“I made a mistake, I made a bad mistake early on. I didn’t take any damage, it was the easiest fight of my life. I thought I won.”
He motivated everyone by sharing his aspiration to bounce back stronger.
