English MMA fighter Leon Edwards was born in Jamaica on August 25, 1991. He competes in the welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he was a former champion.
In the trilogy fight with Kamaru Usman, Edwards displayed higher confidence, more than double the striking output, improved takedown defense, better ability to get back to his feet, and enhanced striking defense. Despite losing a point for grabbing the fence, Edwards demonstrated overall improvement, debunking any doubts about luck in his previous victory. Edwards was declared the winner, and even if it had been a draw due to the point deduction, it was evident that Edwards was the superior fighter in the bout.
Leon Edwards' Gym
Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards trains at Team Renegade MMA gym in Birmingham, U.K. This gym is also home to Edwards’ brother, Fabian Edwards. Team Renegade MMA made headlines in late 2023 when welterweight prospect Ian Machado Garry was kicked out of the gym due to conflicting interests.
What stance does Leon Edwards use?
Leon Edwards utilizes the Southpaw stance when fighting. The rarity of a Southpaw stance poses a challenge for opponents, who may struggle with unfamiliar angles and movements. Edwards’ best demonstration of the Southpaw stance was seen when he knocked out Kamaru Usman with a left-head kick at UFC 278.
When did Leon Edwards start fighting?
Leon Edwards began his professional fighting career by debuting as an amateur at Bushido Challenge 2: A New Dawn in 2010. His first opponent was Carl Booth, and Edwards secured victory in the second round through an armbar submission.
After signing with Fight UK MMA, Leon Edwards had a successful start, winning his debut against Damian Zlotnicki via technical knockout in the first round. He continued with two more fights for the promotion, securing a victory over Pawel Zwiefka and facing a loss to Delroy McDowell due to disqualification for an illegal knee.
Following his time at Fight UK MMA, Edwards accumulated a 2–1 record. He then participated in Strength and Honor 14, defeating Craig White by decision. Subsequently, he joined "BAMMA," where he achieved an impressive 5–0 record. Edwards claimed the welterweight championship by defeating Wayne Murrie and defended it once against Shaun Taylor in his final BAMMA fight before transitioning to the UFC.
Leon Edwards made his UFC debut on November 8, 2014, against Cláudio Silva at UFC Fight Night: Shogun vs. Saint Preux, and he suffered a defeat via split decision in his promotional debut for the organization.
Last updated on March 22, 2025.
FAQs On When did Leon Edwards win the belt?
A. Leon Edwards trains out of Team Renegade MMA gym in Birmingham, U.K.
A. Leon Edwards is nicknamed ‘Rocky.’
A. Dave Lovell is the coach of the UFC welterweight champion, Leon Edwards.
A. Leon Edwards made his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night: Shogun vs. Saint Preux on November 8, 2014.
A. Edwards maintains a head-to-head record of 2 wins and 1 loss against Kamaru Usman in 3 fights (2-1).
