Leon Edwards

Edwards was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and lived with his parents and his brother in a one-room house. Growing up, he was surrounded by crime, and his father was involved in what he describes as "questionable activities". Edwards moved to the Aston area of Birmingham, England at nine years old. In the early hours of 2 October 2004, when Edwards was {{time interval|25 August 1991|2 October 2004|show=y}} old, his father, Rufus Edwards, was shot and killed in a nightclub in Croydon, London.

• {{cite web |title=Pair dead in nightclub shooting |website=BBC News |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/3709858.stm |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231221171922/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/3709858.stm |archive-date=21 Dec 2023 |language=en-GB |date=2 October 2004 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |title=Triple shooting victims are named |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/3714536.stm |website=BBC News |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231221172239/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/3714536.stm |archive-date=21 Dec 2023 |language=en-GB |date=4 October 2004 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |title=Women 'shot by gang of assassins' |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/bristol/somerset/4790162.stm |website=BBC News |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231221172142/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/bristol/somerset/4790162.stm |archive-date=21 Dec 2023 |language=en-GB |date=9 March 2006 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |title=Court told of club terror |url=https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/724123.court-told-club-terror/ |website=Your Local Guardian |access-date=22 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231222013702/https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/724123.court-told-club-terror/ |archive-date=22 December 2023 |language=en |date=5 April 2006 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |title=Witnesses describe Spotlight gun attack |url=https://www.hillingdontimes.co.uk/news/717147.witnesses-describe-spotlight-gun-attack |website=Hillingdon Times |access-date=9 January 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240109160300/https://www.hillingdontimes.co.uk/news/717147.witnesses-describe-spotlight-gun-attack/ |archive-date=2024-01-09 |language=en |date=29 March 2006 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |title=I'd seen people being shot from a young age – MMA showed me a different path |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/ufc/leon-edwards-belal-muhammad-ufc-b1815852.html |website=The Independent |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230305004418/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/ufc/leon-edwards-belal-muhammad-ufc-b1815852.html |archive-date=5 Mar 2023 |language=en |date=16 November 2021 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |last1=Battison |first1=Paul |title=Leon Edwards: UFC fighter's rise to world champion & escaping his 'darkest years' |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/62564038 |website=BBC Sport |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231221203303/https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/62564038 |archive-date=21 Dec 2023 |language=en |date=16 March 2023 |url-status=live}}
• {{cite web |last1=McRae |first1=Donald |title=UFC's Leon Edwards: 'In Jamaica killing seemed normal. We were used to death all around us' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/dec/12/ufc-leon-edwards-interview-colby-covington |website=The Guardian |access-date=21 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231221202642/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/dec/12/ufc-leon-edwards-interview-colby-covington |archive-date=21 Dec 2023 |language=en-GB |date=12 December 2023 |url-status=live}}

He was then involved in criminal activity such as drug dealing, street fighting, and knife possession along with others in his social circle, but was able to get out of his lifestyle at age 17, when his mother got him to join an MMA club.{{Cite web|date=2019-07-17|title=Leon Edwards: MMA saved me from being 'dead, in prison or dead broke'|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/27208469/mma-saved-being-dead-prison-dead-broke|access-date=2020-12-23|website=ESPN.com|language=en|archive-date=7 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107235930/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/27208469/mma-saved-being-dead-prison-dead-broke|url-status=live}}

Edwards began his professional fighting career in 2010, making his debut as an amateur at Bushido Challenge 2 - A New Dawn. Edwards fought Carl Booth, winning via an armbar submission in round two.{{fact|date=April 2025}}

Edwards then signed a contract with Fight UK MMA. He debuted for the promotion against Damian Zlotnicki, winning via technical knockout in the first round. He had two more fights for the promotion, winning against Pawel Zwiefka and losing against Delroy McDowell via DQ by way of an illegal knee.{{fact|date=April 2025}}

Edwards obtained a 2–1 record after leaving Fight UK MMA. He then fought Craig White at the Strength and Honor 14, winning by decision. Edwards then went to fight for "BAMMA", in which he went 5–0. During his stint with BAMMA, he won the welterweight championship against Wayne Murrie and he defended it once against Shaun Taylor in what was his last fight with BAMMA before going to the UFC.{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/9/26/6846319/ufc-night-stockholm-signs-lapilus-vs-siver-uberlandia-ansaroff-vs-lima-edwards-vs-silva-mma-news|title=Welcome to the UFC, Lapilus, Ansaroff, & Edwards|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|first=Zane|last=Simon|work=Bloody Elbow |date=2014-09-26|access-date=2014-09-26|archive-date=3 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003012547/http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/9/26/6846319/ufc-night-stockholm-signs-lapilus-vs-siver-uberlandia-ansaroff-vs-lima-edwards-vs-silva-mma-news|url-status=live}}

Edwards made his promotional debut against Cláudio Silva on 8 November 2014 at UFC Fight Night: Shogun vs. Saint Preux.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/fight/4362/leon-edwards-vs-claudio-silva |title=CLAUDIO HENRIQUE DA SILVA DEF. LEON EDWARDS |date=9 June 2010 |publisher=mmafighting.com |access-date=11 Apr 2015 |archive-date=28 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150228010457/http://www.mmafighting.com/fight/4362/leon-edwards-vs-claudio-silva |url-status=live }} He was defeated via split decision.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/toughness-ground-work-get-claudio-silva-by-leon-edwards-by-split-decision-110914|title=Toughness, ground work get Claudio Silva by Leon Edwards by split decision|work=foxsports.com|first=Marc|last=Raimondi|date=2014-11-09|access-date=2014-11-09|archive-date=14 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614121829/http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/toughness-ground-work-get-claudio-silva-by-leon-edwards-by-split-decision-110914|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced veteran Seth Baczynski on 11 April 2015 at UFC Fight Night 64.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/04/ufc-fight-night-64-results-leon-edwards-needs-only-eight-seconds-to-ko-seth-baczynski |title=UFC Fight Night 64 results: Leon Edwards takes eight seconds to KO Seth Baczynski |date=11 Apr 2015 |publisher=MMAJunkie.com |access-date=11 Apr 2015 |archive-date=12 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150412034957/http://mmajunkie.com/2015/04/ufc-fight-night-64-results-leon-edwards-needs-only-eight-seconds-to-ko-seth-baczynski |url-status=live }} Edwards won the fight via KO at 0:08 of the first round.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/04/ufc-fight-night-64-results-leon-edwards-needs-only-eight-seconds-to-ko-seth-baczynski|title=UFC Fight Night 64 results: Leon Edwards takes eight seconds to KO Seth Baczynski|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Ben|last=Fowlkes|date=2015-04-11|access-date=2015-04-11|archive-date=12 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150412034957/http://mmajunkie.com/2015/04/ufc-fight-night-64-results-leon-edwards-needs-only-eight-seconds-to-ko-seth-baczynski|url-status=live}} This result earned him a Performance of the Night bonus{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2015/4/11/8390685/ufc-poland-post-fight-bonuses-cro-cop-gonzaga-moroz-edwards-50000-mma-news|title=UFC Poland post-fight bonuses: Cro Cop, Gonzaga, Moroz, and Edwards pick up $50,000 each|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|first=Mookie|last=Alexander|date=2015-04-11|access-date=2015-04-11|archive-date=12 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150412164907/http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2015/4/11/8390685/ufc-poland-post-fight-bonuses-cro-cop-gonzaga-moroz-edwards-50000-mma-news|url-status=live}} and marked one of the sixth fastest knockouts in the organization.{{Cite web|title=Quickest Knockout Finishes In UFC|url=https://www.tapology.com/search/mma-fastest-fights/quickest-knockout-finishes-in-ufc|access-date=2020-10-24|website=Tapology|language=en|archive-date=27 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027095447/https://www.tapology.com/search/mma-fastest-fights/quickest-knockout-finishes-in-ufc|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Pawel Pawlak on 18 July 2015 at UFC Fight Night 72.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/05/redmond-vs-whiteford-edwards-vs-pawlak-booked-for-ufc-fight-night-72-in-scotland|title=Redmond vs. Whiteford, Edwards vs. Pawlak booked for UFC Fight Night 72 in Scotland|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Matt|last=Erickson|date=2015-05-18|access-date=2015-05-18|archive-date=21 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521234352/http://mmajunkie.com/2015/05/redmond-vs-whiteford-edwards-vs-pawlak-booked-for-ufc-fight-night-72-in-scotland|url-status=live}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/07/ufc-fight-night-72-results-head-kick-helps-leon-edwards-past-pawel-pawlak|title=UFC Fight Night 72 results: Head kick helps Leon Edwards past Pawel Pawlak|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Steven|last=Marrocco|date=18 July 2015|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719023855/http://mmajunkie.com/2015/07/ufc-fight-night-72-results-head-kick-helps-leon-edwards-past-pawel-pawlak|url-status=live}}

Edwards next faced eventual UFC champion Kamaru Usman on 19 December 2015 at UFC on Fox 17.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/09/leon-edwards-vs-tuf-21-winner-kamaru-usman-added-to-ufc-on-fox-17-in-orlando|title=Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman added to UFC on FOX 17 in Orlando|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2015-09-01|access-date=2015-09-01|archive-date=1 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150901231043/http://mmajunkie.com/2015/09/leon-edwards-vs-tuf-21-winner-kamaru-usman-added-to-ufc-on-fox-17-in-orlando|url-status=live}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/12/ufc-on-fox-17-results-kamaru-usman-grinds-out-leon-edwards|title=UFC on FOX 17 results: Kamaru Usman grinds out Leon Edwards|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=John|last=Morgan|date=2015-12-19|access-date=2015-12-19|archive-date=24 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624092908/https://mmajunkie.com/2015/12/ufc-on-fox-17-results-kamaru-usman-grinds-out-leon-edwards|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Dominic Waters on 8 May 2016 at UFC Fight Night 87.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/03/leon-edwards-steps-in-for-injured-peter-sobotta-at-ufc-fight-night-87-in-rotterdam|title=Leon Edwards steps in for injured Peter Sobotta at UFC Fight Night 87 in Rotterdam|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2016-03-30|access-date=2016-03-30|archive-date=16 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180416072627/http://mmajunkie.com/2016/03/leon-edwards-steps-in-for-injured-peter-sobotta-at-ufc-fight-night-87-in-rotterdam|url-status=live}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/05/ufc-fight-night-87-results-leon-edwards-vs-dominic-waters|title=UFC Fight Night 87 results: Leon Edwards shuts out Dominic Waters for unanimous decision|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Ben|last=Fowlkes|date=2016-05-08|access-date=2016-05-08|archive-date=9 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160509110205/http://mmajunkie.com/2016/05/ufc-fight-night-87-results-leon-edwards-vs-dominic-waters|url-status=live}}

Edwards next faced Albert Tumenov on 8 October 2016 at UFC 204.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/08/leon-edwards-vs-albert-tumenov-booked-for-ufc-204-in-manchester|title=Leon Edwards vs. Albert Tumenov booked for UFC 204 in Manchester|author=Staff|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=2016-08-23|access-date=2016-08-23|archive-date=24 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160824002949/http://mmajunkie.com/2016/08/leon-edwards-vs-albert-tumenov-booked-for-ufc-204-in-manchester|url-status=live}} He won the fight via submission in the third round.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/10/ufc-204-results-leon-edwards-rallies-chokes-out-albert-tumenov-in-third-round|title=UFC 204 results: Leon Edwards rallies, chokes out Albert Tumenov in third round|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Ben|last=Fowlkes|date=2016-10-08|access-date=2016-10-08|archive-date=12 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161012171200/http://mmajunkie.com/2016/10/ufc-204-results-leon-edwards-rallies-chokes-out-albert-tumenov-in-third-round|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Vicente Luque on 18 March 2017 at UFC Fight Night 107.{{cite news|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2017/1/10/14232608/vicente-luque-vs-leon-edwards-slated-ufc-fight-night-london|title=Vicente Luque vs. Leon Edwards slated for UFC Fight Night: London|publisher=mmafighting.com|first=Guilherme|last=Cruz|date=2017-01-10|access-date=2017-01-10|archive-date=12 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170112052250/http://www.mmafighting.com/2017/1/10/14232608/vicente-luque-vs-leon-edwards-slated-ufc-fight-night-london|url-status=live}} He won the fight by unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/03/ufc-fight-night-107-results-leon-edwards-ends-vicente-luques-streak-with-unpredictable-attack|title=UFC Fight Night 107 results: Leon Edwards ends Vicente Luque's streak with unpredictable attack|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=Steven|last=Marrocco|date=2017-03-18|access-date=2017-03-18|archive-date=20 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170320203505/http://mmajunkie.com/2017/03/ufc-fight-night-107-results-leon-edwards-ends-vicente-luques-streak-with-unpredictable-attack|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Bryan Barberena on 2 September 2017 at UFC Fight Night 115.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Bryan-BarberenaLeon-Edwards-Welterweight-Tilt-Joins-Sept-2-UFC-Fight-Night-115-in-Rotterdam-124233|title=Bryan Barberena-Leon Edwards welterweight tilt joins Sept. 2 UFC Fight Night 115 in Rotterdam|publisher=sherdog.com|first=Jordan|last=Breen|date=2017-07-03|access-date=2017-07-03|archive-date=4 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704211944/http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Bryan-BarberenaLeon-Edwards-Welterweight-Tilt-Joins-Sept-2-UFC-Fight-Night-115-in-Rotterdam-124233|url-status=live}} He won the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/09/ufc-rotterdam-results-leon-edwards-survives-knockdown-works-to-decision-over-bryan-barberena|title=UFC-Rotterdam results: Leon Edwards survives knockdown, works to decision over Bryan Barberena|date=2017-09-02|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-09-03|language=en-US|archive-date=4 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204055642/http://mmajunkie.com/2017/09/ufc-rotterdam-results-leon-edwards-survives-knockdown-works-to-decision-over-bryan-barberena|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Peter Sobotta on 17 March 2018 at UFC Fight Night 127.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamad.com/leon-edwards-vs-peter-sobotta-added-ufc-fight-night-127/|title=Leon Edwards vs Peter Sobotta added to UFC Fight Night 127|publisher=mmamad.com|first=Dale|last=Jordan|date=2017-12-07|access-date=2017-12-07|archive-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805134514/http://www.mmamad.com/leon-edwards-vs-peter-sobotta-added-ufc-fight-night-127/|url-status=live}} He won the fight via TKO at 4:59 in the third round.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/03/ufc-fight-night-127-results-leon-edwards-earns-last-second-win-over-peter-sobotta-calls-out-darren-till|title=UFC Fight Night 127 results: Leon Edwards earns last-second TKO win|publisher=mmajunkie.com|first=John|last=Morgan|date=2018-03-17|access-date=2018-03-17|archive-date=24 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624092910/https://mmajunkie.com/2018/03/ufc-fight-night-127-results-leon-edwards-earns-last-second-win-over-peter-sobotta-calls-out-darren-till|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Donald Cerrone on 23 June 2018 at UFC Fight Night 132.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/4/3/17195190/donald-cerrone-vs-leon-edwards-scheduled-for-ufc-singapore-main-event|title=Donald Cerrone vs. Leon Edwards scheduled for UFC Singapore main event|work=MMA Fighting|access-date=2018-04-04|archive-date=23 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623193939/https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/4/3/17195190/donald-cerrone-vs-leon-edwards-scheduled-for-ufc-singapore-main-event|url-status=live}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite news|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/06/leon-edwards-donald-cerrone-ufc-fight-night-132-singapore-results|title=UFC Fight Night 132 results: Leon Edwards outpoints Donald Cerrone, calls out Jorge Masvidal|date=2018-06-23|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-06-23|language=en-US|archive-date=26 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726040226/https://mmajunkie.com/2018/06/leon-edwards-donald-cerrone-ufc-fight-night-132-singapore-results|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced Gunnar Nelson on 16 March 2019 at UFC Fight Night 147.{{Cite web|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2019-01-16|title=UFC London: Gunnar Nelson Faces Leon Edwards in Co-Main Event|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/01/16/ufc-london-gunnar-nelson-leon-edwards/|access-date=2020-10-24|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|archive-date=30 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030065852/https://cagesidepress.com/2019/01/16/ufc-london-gunnar-nelson-leon-edwards/|url-status=live}} He won the bout by split decision.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2019/03/ufc-london-results-leon-edwards-survives-late-charge-to-take-split-over-gunnar-nelson|title=UFC London results: Leon Edwards survives late charge to take split over Gunnar Nelson|date=2019-03-16|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2019-03-17|archive-date=28 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328231003/https://mmajunkie.com/2019/03/ufc-london-results-leon-edwards-survives-late-charge-to-take-split-over-gunnar-nelson|url-status=live}} After the event, Edwards was punched backstage by Jorge Masvidal, which left Edwards with a laceration under his left eye.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/3/16/18269069/ufc-london-video-jorge-masvidal-leon-edwards-exchange-punches-backstage|title=Jorge Masvial, Leon Edwards exchange punches backstage|date=2019-03-16|work=MMA Fighting|access-date=2019-07-23|language=en-US|archive-date=23 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723094827/https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/3/16/18269069/ufc-london-video-jorge-masvidal-leon-edwards-exchange-punches-backstage|url-status=live}}

Edwards faced former UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos on 20 July 2019 in the main event of UFC on ESPN 4.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Rafael-dos-Anjos-vs-Leon-Edwards-to-Headline-UFC-San-Antonio-156623|title=Rafael dos Anjos vs. Leon Edwards to headline UFC San Antonio|first=Jay|last=Pettry|date=2019-06-13|website=sherdog.com|access-date=2019-06-13|archive-date=18 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718012745/https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Rafael-dos-Anjos-vs-Leon-Edwards-to-Headline-UFC-San-Antonio-156623|url-status=live}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/07/21/ufc-san-antonio-results-leon-edwards/|title=UFC San Antonio Results: Leon Edwards Looks Brilliant in Win Over Rafael dos Anjos|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2019-07-21|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|access-date=2019-07-21|archive-date=21 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721043636/https://cagesidepress.com/2019/07/21/ufc-san-antonio-results-leon-edwards/|url-status=live}}

As the first bout of his new, multi-fight contract, Edwards was scheduled to face Tyron Woodley on 21 March 2020 at UFC Fight Night: Woodley vs. Edwards.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/01/tyron-woodley-vs-leon-edwards-ufc-london-main-event-booked|title=Tyron Woodley, Leon Edwards set to headline UFC on ESPN+ 29 in London|date=2020-01-17|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2020-01-17|archive-date=17 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200117145442/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/01/tyron-woodley-vs-leon-edwards-ufc-london-main-event-booked|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/1/21/21075902/leon-edwards-signs-multi-fight-deal-with-ufc|title=Leon Edwards signs multi-fight deal with UFC|date=21 January 2020|publisher=mmafighting.com|first=Alexander K.|last=Lee|access-date=22 January 2020|archive-date=22 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200122014441/https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/1/21/21075902/leon-edwards-signs-multi-fight-deal-with-ufc|url-status=live}} However, the restrictions related to COVID-19 forced Edwards to withdraw as the event was meant to be moved from London to the United States, and the event was subsequently cancelled.{{cite web |last1=King |first1=Nolan |last2=Morgan |first2=John |title=UFC postpones three events amid growing coronavirus outbreak |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/03/ufc-postpones-three-events-coronavirus-pandemic |website=mmajunkie.usatoday.com |date=16 March 2020 |access-date=16 March 2020 |archive-date=2 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200602035229/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/03/ufc-postpones-three-events-coronavirus-pandemic |url-status=live }}

After a 425-day hiatus since his bout with Dos Anjos, the UFC had removed Edwards from the UFC rankings due to inactivity on 22 October 2020.{{Cite web|last=Harkness|first=Ryan|date=2020-10-22|title=Leon Edwards removed from UFC welterweight rankings due to inactivity|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2020/10/22/21528822/leon-edwards-removed-from-welterweight-rankings-due-to-inactivity|access-date=2020-10-23|website=MMAmania.com|language=en|archive-date=24 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024225448/https://www.mmamania.com/2020/10/22/21528822/leon-edwards-removed-from-welterweight-rankings-due-to-inactivity|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2020-10-22|title=Leon Edwards confirms UFC removed him from welterweight rankings – then says not so fast|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-leon-edwards-removed-from-welterweight-rankings|access-date=2020-10-23|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026172910/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-leon-edwards-removed-from-welterweight-rankings|url-status=live}} However, one day later, it was announced that he had been scheduled to face undefeated prospect Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC Fight Night 183 on 19 December 2020.{{Cite web|date=2020-10-23|title=UFC books Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev, expected to headline Dec. 19|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-news-dana-white-announces-leon-edwards-khamzat-chimaev|access-date=2020-10-23|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101054734/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-news-dana-white-announces-leon-edwards-khamzat-chimaev|url-status=live}} This involved Edwards being back to the #3 spot in the UFC rankings.{{Cite web|last=Heck|first=Mike|date=2020-10-23|title=Dana White: Deal done to book Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev on Dec. 19|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/10/23/21531055/dana-white-deal-done-to-book-leon-edwards-vs-khamzat-chimaev-for-future-ufc-card|access-date=2020-10-23|website=MMA Fighting|language=en|archive-date=24 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024193028/https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/10/23/21531055/dana-white-deal-done-to-book-leon-edwards-vs-khamzat-chimaev-for-future-ufc-card|url-status=live}} On 29 November, it was announced that Chimaev had allegedly tested positive for COVID-19, which meant the bout was declared on jeopardy.{{Cite web|last=Krohn|first=Frazer|date=2020-11-29|title=Khamzat Chimaev Tests Positive for COVID-19|url=https://mmasucka.com/2020/11/29/khamzat-chimaev-tests-positive-for-covid-19/|access-date=2020-12-23|website=MMASucka.com|language=en-US|archive-date=18 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201218140535/https://mmasucka.com/2020/11/29/khamzat-chimaev-tests-positive-for-covid-19/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Harkness|first=Ryan|date=2020-11-29|title=Report: Khamzat Chimaev has COVID-19, December 19 fight in jeopardy|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2020/11/29/21725459/report-khamzat-chimaev-has-covid-19-december-19-fight-in-jeopardy|access-date=2020-12-23|website=MMAmania.com|language=en|archive-date=22 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201222132523/https://www.mmamania.com/2020/11/29/21725459/report-khamzat-chimaev-has-covid-19-december-19-fight-in-jeopardy|url-status=live}} On 1 December, Edwards officially tested positive for COVID-19 and allegedly lost twelve pounds due to the severity of his case, so the bout was subsequently postponed.{{Cite web|date=2020-12-01|title=Sources: Edwards-Chimaev off after positive test|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30429656/sources-leon-edwards-khamzat-chimaev-fight-edwards-tests-positive-covid-19|access-date=2020-12-23|website=ESPN.com|language=en|archive-date=7 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201207012521/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30429656/sources-leon-edwards-khamzat-chimaev-fight-edwards-tests-positive-covid-19|url-status=live}} On 22 December, it was announced that the contest has been rescheduled for 20 January 2021, at UFC Fight Night 185.{{Cite web|last=Sherdog.com|title=Dana White Officially Announces 'Fight Island' Tripleheader, Including Edwards vs. Chimaev|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Dana-White-Officially-Announces-Fight-Island-Tripleheader-Including-Edwards-vs-Chimaev-176916|access-date=2020-12-23|website=Sherdog|archive-date=22 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201222163334/https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Dana-White-Officially-Announces-Fight-Island-Tripleheader-Including-Edwards-vs-Chimaev-176916|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2020-12-22|title=Khamzat Chimaev vs Leon Edwards Gets a New Date|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-khamzat-chimaev-vs-leon-edwards-gets-a-new-date/|access-date=2020-12-23|website=EssentiallySports|language=en-US|archive-date=22 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201222174933/https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-khamzat-chimaev-vs-leon-edwards-gets-a-new-date/|url-status=live}} In turn, Chimaev pulled out of the contest on 29 December due to lingering effects of his own COVID-19 struggle.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30618956/sources-khamzat-chimaev-withdraws-jan-20-leon-edwards-fight%3fplatform=amp|title=Sources: Khamzat Chimaev withdraws from Jan. 20 Leon Edwards fight|work=ESPN|first=Brett|last=Okamoto|date=2020-12-29|access-date=2020-12-29|archive-date=9 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109061248/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30618956/sources-khamzat-chimaev-withdraws-jan-20-leon-edwards-fight?platform=amp|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/12/ufc-news-covid-reason-khamzat-chimaev-withdrew-leon-edwards-fight|title=COVID-19 complications led to Khamzat Chimaev's withdrawal from Leon Edwards bout|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Danny Segura|date=2020-12-30|access-date=2020-12-30|archive-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512224953/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/12/ufc-news-covid-reason-khamzat-chimaev-withdrew-leon-edwards-fight|url-status=live}} As a result, the bout was temporarily cancelled.{{Cite web|last=Heck|first=Mike|date=2020-12-30|title=Michael Chiesa vs. Neil Magny now headlines UFC Fight Island 8|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/12/30/22207534/michael-chiesa-vs-neil-magny-now-headlines-ufc-fight-island-8|access-date=2020-12-31|website=MMA Fighting|language=en|archive-date=31 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201231075328/https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/12/30/22207534/michael-chiesa-vs-neil-magny-now-headlines-ufc-fight-island-8|url-status=live}} On 13 January, the bout was scheduled for the third time, and was scheduled to headline UFC Fight Night 187 on 13 March 2021.{{Cite web|last=Martin|first=Damon|date=2021-01-13|title=Leon Edwards vs. Khamzat Chimaev rebooked to headline UFC event on March 13|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/1/13/22228637/leon-edwards-vs-khamzat-chimaev-rebooked-to-headline-ufc-event-on-march-13|access-date=2021-01-13|website=MMA Fighting|language=en|archive-date=13 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113145822/https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/1/13/22228637/leon-edwards-vs-khamzat-chimaev-rebooked-to-headline-ufc-event-on-march-13|url-status=live}} However, on 11 February, UFC president Dana White announced the fight was once again cancelled due to Chimaev suffering from lingering effects of COVID-19.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30882760/khamzat-chimaev-leon-edwards-due-covid-19-dana-white-says|title=Khamzat Chimaev out against Leon Edwards due to COVID-19, Dana White says|work=ESPN|author=Brett Okamoto|date=2021-02-11|accessdate=2021-02-11|archive-date=12 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210212004152/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30882760/khamzat-chimaev-leon-edwards-due-covid-19-dana-white-says|url-status=live}} On 18 February, it was announced that Belal Muhammad would be the replacement opponent for Edwards.{{cite web|date=18 February 2021|title=Sources: Belal Muhammad steps in to face Leon Edwards at UFC Fight Night on March 13|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30924423/sources-belal-muhammad-steps-face-leon-edwards-march-13|accessdate=18 February 2021|work=ESPN|archive-date=18 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210218191717/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/30924423/sources-belal-muhammad-steps-face-leon-edwards-march-13|url-status=live}} During the beginning of the second round, Edwards accidentally poked Muhammad in the eye rendering him unable to continue. The fight was declared a no contest, snapping his 8-fight win streak.{{Cite web|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2021-03-13|title=UFC Vegas 21 Results: Accidental Eye Poke Ends Main Event|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2021/03/13/ufc-vegas-21-results-leon-edwards-belal-muhammad/|access-date=2021-03-14|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|archive-date=14 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210314034009/https://cagesidepress.com/2021/03/13/ufc-vegas-21-results-leon-edwards-belal-muhammad/|url-status=live}}

Edwards was expected to face Nate Diaz on 15 May 2021 at UFC 262, marking the first time a non-main event and non-title bout had been scheduled for 5 rounds in UFC history.{{Cite web|last=Taylor|first=Christopher|date=2021-03-31|title=Nate Diaz is back! Set to fight Leon Edwards at UFC 262 {{!}} BJPenn.com|url=https://www.bjpenn.com/mma-news/ufc/nate-diaz-is-back-set-to-fight-leon-edwards-at-ufc-262/|access-date=2021-03-31|website={{!}} BJPenn.com|language=en-US|archive-date=31 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331031842/https://www.bjpenn.com/mma-news/ufc/nate-diaz-is-back-set-to-fight-leon-edwards-at-ufc-262/|url-status=live}} However, the bout was moved to UFC 263 due to a minor injury sustained by Diaz.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/5/3/22418618/leon-edwards-vs-nate-diaz-rescheduled-from-ufc-262-in-may-to-ufc-263-in-june|title=Leon Edwards vs. Nate Diaz rescheduled from UFC 262 in May to UFC 263 in June|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Damon Martin|date=2021-05-03|access-date=2021-05-03|archive-date=15 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515185401/https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/5/3/22418618/leon-edwards-vs-nate-diaz-rescheduled-from-ufc-262-in-may-to-ufc-263-in-june|url-status=live}} Edwards controlled a vast majority of the bout, but was stunned badly with punches late in the fifth. Edwards won the fight by unanimous decision (49–46, 49–46, 49–46).{{Cite web|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2021-06-12|title=UFC 263 Results: Leon Edwards Survives Late Push from Nate Diaz, Wins Decision|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2021/06/12/ufc-263-results-leon-edwards-nate-diaz/|access-date=2021-06-13|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|archive-date=13 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613111036/https://cagesidepress.com/2021/06/12/ufc-263-results-leon-edwards-nate-diaz/|url-status=live}}

Edwards was scheduled to face Jorge Masvidal on 11 December 2021 at UFC 269.{{Cite web|date=2021-10-11|title=Jorge Masvidal vs. Leon Edwards set to meet at final pay-per-view of the year at UFC 269|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/10/ufc-news-jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-in-the-works-for-ufc-269|access-date=2021-10-11|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=11 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011222154/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/10/ufc-news-jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-in-the-works-for-ufc-269|url-status=live}} However, Masvidal withdrew due to injury and the bout was scrapped.{{Cite web|date=2021-11-10|title=Jorge Masvidal out of UFC 269 fight vs. Leon Edwards|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/11/ufc-269-news-jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-off-injury|access-date=2021-11-10|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=11 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211111084658/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/11/ufc-269-news-jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-off-injury|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Mahjouri|first=Shakiel|date=2021-11-10|title=Jorge Masvidal vs. Leon Edwards scrapped from UFC 269, Khamzat Chimaev steps up|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2021/11/10/22775070/jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-ufc-269-injury-mma-news|access-date=2022-01-25|website=MMAmania.com|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125234311/https://www.mmamania.com/2021/11/10/22775070/jorge-masvidal-vs-leon-edwards-ufc-269-injury-mma-news|url-status=live}}

Edwards rematched Kamaru Usman on 20 August 2022 at UFC 278 for the UFC Welterweight Championship.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/6/11/23164282/ufc-278-set-for-salt-lake-city-with-kamaru-usman-vs-leon-edwards-2-headlining|title=UFC 278 set for Salt Lake City with Kamaru Usman vs. Leon Edwards 2 headlining|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Staff|date=2022-06-11|access-date=2022-06-11|archive-date=12 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612063938/https://www.mmafighting.com/platform/amp/2022/6/11/23164282/ufc-278-set-for-salt-lake-city-with-kamaru-usman-vs-leon-edwards-2-headlining|url-status=live}} After having a successful first round and struggling for the next four, Edwards won the fight and title via knockout in the fifth round, claiming the UFC Welterweight Championship.{{Cite web |date=2022-08-21 |title=Edwards shocks Usman with late head-kick KO |url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/34433821/leon-edwards-takes-kamaru-usman-ufc-title-5th-round-head-kick-ko |access-date=2022-08-22 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=22 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220822070156/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/34433821/leon-edwards-takes-kamaru-usman-ufc-title-5th-round-head-kick-ko |url-status=live }} The win earned him the Performance of the Night award.{{Cite web |title=UFC 278 post-fight bonuses: Leon Edwards earns $50k for stunning head kick KO of Kamaru Usman |url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2022/8/21/23314824/ufc-278-post-fight-bonuses-leon-edwards-earns-50k-for-stunning-head-kick-ko-of-kamaru-usman-mma-news |access-date=2022-08-25 |website=www.bloodyelbow.com |date=21 August 2022 |language=en |archive-date=25 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220825104556/https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2022/8/21/23314824/ufc-278-post-fight-bonuses-leon-edwards-earns-50k-for-stunning-head-kick-ko-of-kamaru-usman-mma-news |url-status=live }} This victory is considered by many to be one of the best knockouts of all time, as well as one of the best comebacks to ever be pulled off in UFC history.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2022/8/26/23323768/ufc-278-fight-motion-video-did-leon-edwards-deliver-the-greatest-knockout-in-ufc-history-espn-ppv|title=UFC 278 'Fight Motion' video: Did Leon Edwards deliver the greatest knockout in UFC history?|work=MMA Mania|author=Dan Hiergesell|date=26 August 2022 |access-date=2023-07-12}}

A third fight between Edwards and Usman took place on 18 March 2023, at UFC 286.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/1/14/23498754/leon-edwards-vs-kamaru-usman-3-set-for-ufc-286-in-london|title=Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman 3 set for UFC 286 in London|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Damon Martin|date=2023-01-14|access-date=2023-01-14|archive-date=15 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115052036/https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/1/14/23498754/leon-edwards-vs-kamaru-usman-3-set-for-ufc-286-in-london|url-status=live}} With a point deduction in the third round due to grabbing the fence to prevent a takedown, he won the bout via majority decision. Aside from the fence grab, Edwards was commended for showing significant improvement from the second meeting with Usman, defending 11 of Usman's 15 takedown attempts and out-striking Usman on the feet for most of the fight.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/03/18/ufc-286-leon-edwards-vs-kamaru-usman/|title=UFC 286: Leon Edwards overcomes point deduction, defends Welterweight title against Kamaru Usman|website=Cageside Press|author=Jay Anderson|date=2023-03-18|access-date=2023-03-18}}

In the second defence of his title, Edwards faced Colby Covington on 16 December 2023 in the main event at UFC 296.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=2023-09-20 |title=Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington, Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval 2 set to headline UFC 296 |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/9/20/23883410/leon-edwards-vs-colby-covington-alexandre-pantoja-vs-brandon-royval-2-set-to-headline-ufc-296 |access-date=2023-09-21 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=2023-12-17 |title=Leon Edwards cruises to victory over lethargic Colby Covington in UFC 296 main event |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/12/17/24004695/leon-edwards-cruises-to-victory-over-lethargic-colby-covington-in-ufc-296-main-event |access-date=2023-12-17 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}

In his third attempted title defence, Edwards faced Belal Muhammad again in a rematch on 27 July 2024 in the main event at UFC 304.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-16 |title=UFC 304 official with Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad headliner and more in Manchester |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/05/ufc-304-manchester-england-edwards-muhammad-heavyweight |access-date=2024-05-16 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}} After being taken down throughout the bout, he lost the championship via unanimous decision, which was the first fight he lost in nine years.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2024/07/28/ufc-304-belal-muhammad-survives-late-surge-claims-gold-from-leon-edwards/|title=UFC 304: Belal Muhammad Survives Late Surge, Claims Gold from Leon Edwards|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Jay Anderson|date=2024-07-28|access-date=2024-07-28}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/articles/cevwr1gpgv9o|title=Briton Edwards loses title in Manchester UFC fight|author=Paul Battison|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 July 2024|accessdate=28 July 2024}}

Edwards was scheduled to face Jack Della Maddalena in the main event on 22 March 2025 at UFC Fight Night 255 in London, England.{{Cite web|title=Leon Edwards vs Jack Della Maddalena walką wieczoru gali UFC w Londynie|url=https://mymma.pl/leon-edwards-vs-jack-della-maddalena-walka-wieczoru-gali-ufc-w-londynie/|date=2025-01-08|access-date=2025-01-08|publisher=mymma.pl|author=Bartosz Sobczak|language=pl}} However, Della Maddalena was pulled from the card to be rescheduled for another matchup, and was replaced by Sean Brady.{{Cite web|title=Sean Brady steps in to face Leon Edwards in new UFC London main event|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/2/19/24369074/sean-brady-steps-in-to-face-leon-edwards-in-new-ufc-london-main-event|date=2025-02-19|access-date=2025-02-19|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Mike Heck}} In his first loss via finish, Edwards lost the fight via a guillotine choke submission in the fourth round.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2025/03/22/ufc-london-short-notice-opportunity-pays-off-as-sean-brady-subs-leon-edwards/|title=UFC London: Short-Notice Opportunity Pays Off As Sean Brady Subs Leon Edwards|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Jay Anderson|date=2025-03-22|access-date=2025-03-22}}

Leon grew up in Aston, Birmingham, England but is originally from Kingston, Jamaica. He started training mixed martial arts when he was 17. His nickname, Rocky, was given to him by his friends in school.{{Cite web |url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/leon-edwards/ |title=Leon Edwards - Official UFC® Fighter Profile |access-date=12 April 2015 |archive-date=30 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180530062409/http://www.ufc.com/fighter/leon-edwards |url-status=live }} His brother, Fabian, is also a mixed martial artist for Bellator MMA.{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/a8cbae10-82c2-4f9c-83af-72eb32a6e946 | title=Rocky and the Assassin, the Birmingham brothers looking to dominate MMA | publisher=BBC | first=Jagroop | last=Shinbt | date=8 March 2018 | access-date=1 April 2019 | archive-date=2 April 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402080645/https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/a8cbae10-82c2-4f9c-83af-72eb32a6e946 | url-status=live }}

• Ultimate Fighting Championship
• UFC Welterweight Championship (One time)
• Two successful title defenses
• First Jamaican-born champion in UFC history{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-fight-night-255-pre-event-facts-gunnar-nelson-records|title=UFC Fight Night 255 pre-event facts: Gunnar Nelson returns with records intact|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Mike Bohn|date=2025-03-18|access-date=2025-03-18}}
• One of two undisputed British champions in UFC history {{small|(with Michael Bisping)}}
• Performance of the Night (Two Times) vs. Seth Baczynski and Kamaru Usman 2{{Cite web|date=2021-03-13|title=Recap Leon Edwards' knockout win over Seth Baczynski (don't worry, it won't take long!)|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/03/ufc-fight-night-187-video-leon-edwards-knocks-out-seth-baczynski-eight-seconds|access-date=2021-06-13|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US|archive-date=13 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613202842/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/03/ufc-fight-night-187-video-leon-edwards-knocks-out-seth-baczynski-eight-seconds|url-status=live}}
• Sixth-fastest finish in UFC history {{small|vs. Seth Baczynski}} (8 seconds)
• Second longest unbeaten streak in UFC Welterweight Division history (13) (behind Kamaru Usman){{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/leon-edwards-tames-colby-covington-sided-win-ufc/story?id=105722200#:~:text=Edwards%20(22%2D3%2C%201,has%20not%20lost%20since%202015.|title=Leon Edwards tames Colby Covington in one-sided win at UFC 296|publisher=ABC News|date=2023-12-16|author=UFC}}
• Tied (Kamaru Usman) for fourth most decision wins in UFC Welterweight division history (10){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/?fighter_status=0&weight_class=WW|title=UFC Stats - Welterweight Division|publisher=UFC|date=2024-06-29|author=UFC}}
• Tied (Ian Machado Garry & Jack Della Maddalena) for the third longest win streak in UFC Welterweight division history (8)
• Latest knockout & finish in UFC Welterweight division history (0:01 remaining vs. Peter Sobotta){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/en/fight?weight_class=WW|title=UFC Fight Stats - Welterweight Division|publisher=UFC|date=2023-12-16|author=UFC}}
• UFC Honors Awards
• 2022: Fan's Choice Knockout of the Year Winner {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman 2}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmanews.com/news/dana-whites-ufc-2022-presidents-choice-award-winners-revealed|title=Dana White's UFC 2022 President's Choice Award Winners Revealed|publisher=mmanews.com|author=J. Cunningham|date=2023-01-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240114160534/https://www.mmanews.com/news/dana-whites-ufc-2022-presidents-choice-award-winners-revealed |access-date=2024-01-13|archive-date=14 January 2024 }} & Fan's Choice Comeback of the Year Winner {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman 2}}
• UFC.com Awards
• 2022: Ranked #5 Fighter of the Year,{{cite web|url=

https://www.ufc.com/news/fighters-2022-ufccom-awards-volkanovski-makhachev-edwards-sterling-pereira|title=The Fighters - 2022 UFC.com Awards|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=25 December 2022|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}} Upset of the Year{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/upsets-2022-ufc-com-awards|title=The Upsets - 2022 UFC.com Awards|date=21 December 2022|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}} & Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman 2}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/knockouts-2022-ufc-awards-edwards-chandler-zhang-pereira|title=The Knockouts - 2022 UFC.com Awards|date=22 December 2022|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}

• 2023: Ranked #3 Fighter of the Year{{Cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/fighters-2023-ufc-com-awards-makhachev-jones-gaethje-pereira-grasso|title=The Fighters - 2023 UFC.com Awards|publisher=UFC|author=UFC Staff|date=2023-12-23|access-date=2024-12-23}} & Ranked #6 Upset of the Year {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman 3}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/upsets-2023-ufccom-awards-grasso-green-aspinall-rakhmonov-strickland|title=The Upsets - 2023 UFC.com Awards|date=20 December 2023|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
• BAMMA
• BAMMA RDX Welterweight Championship (One time, former)
• One successful title defence
• MMAjunkie.com
• 2022 August Knockout of the Month {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman}}{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/knockout-of-the-month-august-2022-leon-edwards-kamaru-usman-head-kick-ufc-278|title=MMA Junkie's Knockout of the Month for August: A stunning head kick claims gold|date=28 August 2022|work=MMAjunkie.com|author=Mike Bohn|access-date=29 September 2022|archive-date=29 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220929150449/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/knockout-of-the-month-august-2022-leon-edwards-kamaru-usman-head-kick-ufc-278|url-status=live}}
• ESPN
• 2022 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/35287558/mma-2022-awards-best-fighter-finish-prospect-more|title=MMA 2022 awards: The best fighter, finish, prospect and more|website=ESPN.com|author=Brett Okamoto|date=2022-12-22|access-date=2022-12-23|archive-date=23 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221223145718/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/35287558/mma-2022-awards-best-fighter-finish-prospect-more|url-status=live}}
• Cageside Press
• 2022 Comeback of the Year {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman}}{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/01/01/mma-2022-year-review-comeback/|title=MMA 2022 Year in Review: Comeback of the Year|website=Cagesidepress.com|author=Staff|date=2023-01-01|access-date=2023-01-02|archive-date=2 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102181304/https://cagesidepress.com/2023/01/01/mma-2022-year-review-comeback/|url-status=live}}
• 2022 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Kamaru Usman, tied with Michael Chandler}}{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/01/02/mma-2022-knockout-year/|title=MMA 2022 Year in Review: Knockout of the Year|website=Cagesidepress.com|author=Staff|date=2023-01-01|access-date=2023-01-02|archive-date=2 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102181304/https://cagesidepress.com/2023/01/02/mma-2022-knockout-year/|url-status=live}}
• Violent Money TV
• VMTV UK MMA Knockout of the Year 2022{{small| vs. Kamaru Usman at UFC 278}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.vmtv.co.uk/2023/01/12/2022-mma-awards-show-fan-editors-edition/|title=2022 MMA Awards Show – Fans & Editors Edition|work=Violent Money TV|first=Cauley |last=Quilty |date=2023-01-06}}
• VMTV UK MMA Male Fighter of the Year 2023{{Cite web|url=https://www.vmtv.co.uk/2024/01/09/verbal-money/2023-uk-mma-awards-show/|title=VMTV 2023 UK MMA Awards Show|work=Violent Money TV |date=2024-01-09}}
• World MMA Awards
• 2023 Charles 'Mask' Lewis Fighter of the Year{{cite web|author=Bryan Tucker|date=2023-12-14|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/12/14/24000708/world-mma-awards-2023-results|title=World MMA Awards 2023 Results|publisher=mmafighting.com|access-date=15 December 2023}}
• 2023 International Fighter of the Year
• 2023 Knockout of the Year vs. Kamaru Usman at UFC 278
• 2023 Comeback of the Year vs. Kamaru Usman at UFC 278

{{MMArecordbox

|draws=

|nc=1

|ko-wins=7

|sub-wins=3

|dec-wins=12

|ko-losses=

|sub-losses=1

|dec-losses=3

|dq-wins=

|dq-losses=1

|other-wins=

|other-losses=

}}

{{MMA record start}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|22–5 (1)

|Sean Brady

|Submission (guillotine choke)

|UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Brady

|{{dts|format=dmy|2025|March|22}}

|align=center|4

|align=center|1:39

|London, England

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|22–4 (1)

|Belal Muhammad

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 304

|{{dts|format=dmy|2024|July|27}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|Manchester, England

|{{small|Lost the UFC Welterweight Championship.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|22–3 (1)

|Colby Covington

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 296

|{{dts|format=dmy|2023|December|16}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Defended the UFC Welterweight Championship.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|21–3 (1)

|Kamaru Usman

|Decision (majority)

|UFC 286

|{{dts|format=dmy|2023|March|18}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|London, England

|{{small|Defended the UFC Welterweight Championship. Edwards was deducted one point in round 3 due to grabbing the fence.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|20–3 (1)

|Kamaru Usman

|KO (head kick)

|UFC 278

|{{dts|format=dmy|2022|August|20}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|4:04

|Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

|{{small|Won the UFC Welterweight Championship. Performance of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|19–3 (1)

|Nate Diaz

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 263

|{{dts|format=dmy|2021|June|12}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|Glendale, Arizona, United States

|

|-

|{{nocontest}}NC

|align=center|{{nowrap|18–3 (1)}}

|Belal Muhammad

|NC (accidental eye poke)

|UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Muhammad

|{{dts|format=dmy|2021|March|13}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|0:18

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Accidental eye poke rendered Muhammad unable to continue.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|18–3

|Rafael dos Anjos

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on ESPN: dos Anjos vs. Edwards

|{{dts|format=dmy|2019|July|20}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|San Antonio, Texas, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|17–3

|Gunnar Nelson

|Decision (split)

|UFC Fight Night: Till vs. Masvidal

|{{dts|format=dmy|2019|March|16}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|London, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|16–3

|Donald Cerrone

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs. Edwards

|{{dts|format=dmy|2018|June|23}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|Kallang, Singapore

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|15–3

|Peter Sobotta

|TKO (punches)

|UFC Fight Night: Werdum vs. Volkov

|{{dts|format=dmy|2018|March|17}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|4:59

|London, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|14–3

|Bryan Barberena

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Struve

|{{dts|format=dmy|2017|September|2}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Rotterdam, Netherlands

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|13–3

|Vicente Luque

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Manuwa vs. Anderson

|{{dts|format=dmy|2017|March|18}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|London, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|12–3

|Albert Tumenov

|Submission (rear-naked choke)

|UFC 204

|{{dts|format=dmy|2016|October|8}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|3:01

|Manchester, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|11–3

|Dominic Waters

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs. Arlovski

|{{dts|format=dmy|2016|May|8}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Rotterdam, Netherlands

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|10–3

|Kamaru Usman

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on Fox: dos Anjos vs. Cowboy 2

|{{dts|format=dmy|2015|December|19}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Orlando, Florida, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|10–2

|Paweł Pawlak

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Bisping vs. Leites

|{{dts|format=dmy|2015|July|18}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Glasgow, Scotland

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|9–2

|Seth Baczynski

|KO (punches)

|UFC Fight Night: Gonzaga vs. Cro Cop 2

|{{dts|format=dmy|2015|April|11}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:08

|Kraków, Poland

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|8–2

|Cláudio Silva

|Decision (split)

|UFC Fight Night: Shogun vs. Saint Preux

|{{dts|format=dmy|2014|November|8}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Uberlândia, Brazil

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|8–1

|Shaun Taylor

|KO (punch)

|BAMMA 16

|{{dts|format=dmy|2014|September|13}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|3:30

|Manchester, England

|{{small|Defended the BAMMA British Welterweight Championship.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|7–1

|Wayne Murrie

|Submission (rear-naked choke)

|BAMMA 15

|{{dts|format=dmy|2014|May|5}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|3:13

|London, England

|{{small|Won the BAMMA British Welterweight Championship.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|6–1

|Wendle Lewis

|KO (punches)

|BAMMA 14

|{{dts|format=dmy|2013|December|14}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:20

|Birmingham, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|5–1

|Adam Boussif

|Submission (arm-triangle choke)

|BAMMA 13

|{{dts|format=dmy|2013|September|13}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|2:10

|Birmingham, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|4–1

|Jonathan Bilton

|TKO (knees)

|BAMMA 11

|{{dts|format=dmy|2012|December|1}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|1:11

|Birmingham, England

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|3–1

|Craig White

|Technical Decision

|Strength and Honour 14

|{{dts|format=dmy|2012|November|3}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|5:00

|Exeter, England

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|2–1

|Delroy McDowell

|DQ (illegal knee)

|Fight UK MMA 6

|{{dts|format=dmy|2012|February|25}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|2:40

|Leicester, England

|{{small|Return to Welterweight.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|2–0

|Pawel Zwiefka

|Decision (unanimous)

|Fight UK MMA 5

|{{dts|format=dmy|2011|November|19}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Leicester, England

|{{small|Middleweight debut.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|1–0

|Damian Zlotnicki

|TKO (punches)

|Fight UK MMA 4

|{{dts|format=dmy|2011|June|5}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|2:15

|Leicester, England

|{{small|Welterweight debut.}}

|}

• List of current UFC fighters
• List of male mixed martial artists

{{Reflist}}

• {{UFC|leon-edwards}}
• {{Sherdog|62665}}

{{S-start}}

{{s-ach}}

{{S-bef|before=Kamaru Usman}}

{{S-ttl|title=13th UFC Welterweight Champion |years=20 August 2022 – 27 July 2024}}

{{s-aft|after=Belal Muhammad}}

{{s-end}}

{{UFC Welterweight Championship}}

{{UFC Welterweight Rankings}}

{{UFC Men's pound-for-pound Rankings}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Edwards, Leon}}

Category:1991 births

Category:Living people

Category:English male mixed martial artists

Category:Jamaican male mixed martial artists

Category:Welterweight mixed martial artists

Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship male fighters

Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship champions

Category:English practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:Jamaican practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:People awarded a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:Martial artists from Birmingham, West Midlands

Category:Sportspeople from Kingston, Jamaica

Category:Black British sportsmen

Category:21st-century Black British people

Category:21st-century English sportsmen

Category:21st-century Jamaican sportsmen

Category:English people of Jamaican descent

Category:Jamaican emigrants to the United Kingdom

Category:People from Aston