Leon Edwards Explains Why it Was “Hard to be Impressed” With Kamaru Usman – Colby Covington Bout

Saturday’s bout between Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington had several, memorable moments and there’s no question there was a lot riding on the contest. But, since Usman defended the UFC’s welterweight title, Leon Edwards has reported he wasn’t too impressed with what he saw.

Edwards weighs-in on Usman vs. Covington

The UFC 245 headliner was almost entirely, contested on its feet, and Usman ended up outscoring Covington by a 175 to 143 margin. The champion ended the fight in the fifth and final frame, as after Usman dropped the controversial fighter twice, referee Marc Goddard halted the action. Following the bout we learned that going into the fifth round, one judge had it scored three rounds to one for Usman, another had it three – one Covington, and the third judge had it two-two.

Well, Edwards was a guest on Ariel Helwani’s “MMA Show” on Monday, and not surprisingly, he was asked to weigh-in on the fight. Here’s what the welterweight contender had to say (quotes via MMA Mania):

“Being there watching the fight, I thought it was a good fight. It was 50/50 leading into the fifth round. Both men came out and did what the needed to do,” Edwards said. “But being at the fight and watching it, it gave me more confidence that come 2020 I will be world champion. I will beat both of them guys.”

“Not really,” Edward said when asked if he was impressed. “It was a striking match. Two wrestlers in a boxing match, so it’s hard to be impressed with two wrestlers in a boxing match. I feel like I got every tool to go out there and defeat these guys.”

It is true that neither Usman or Covington are known as ferocious, devastating strikers. So, when you consider Edwards’ striking pedigree, you can likely understand why he wasn’t “impressed”. Both Usman and Covington have become far more than just wrestlers, and Usman has some pop in his punches, but they’re top tier fighters for their overall skillset. Comprehensive arsenals that also feature relentless pressuring, great wrestling and dangerous top games.

What’s next for Edwards?

Will Edwards get the chance to “beat” either Usman or Covington anytime soon? There’s been talk that the UFC is looking at having Edwards fight former champ, Tyron Woodley next. So, if Edwards can win that fight, then it would be pretty hard to deny him a title shot. That said, Usman has already opined that he believes Edwards is more deserving of a title shot right now than Jorge Masvidal, on account of his eight-fight winning streak.