Kamaru Usman to Defend Welterweight Title Against Leon Edwards at UFC 278

Mike SloanJun 11, 2022


Kamaru Usman will look to defend his Ultimate Fighting Championship welterweight title on Aug. 20 in the headlining bout of UFC 278 against Leon Edwards.

Usman (20-1) will aim for not only his sixth consecutive title defense, but also secure his 20th straight victory inside the cage. “The Nigerian Nightmare” has been a dominant champion and holds big wins over the likes of Jorge Masvidal (twice), Gilbert Burns and two against arch rival Colby Covington.

Looking to upend Usman’s magnificent run is Edwards (19-3, 1 NC), a man who is on a similar hot streak, having won his last 10 battles. Edwards, the No. 2 ranked welterweight in the UFC, hasn’t lost since late 2015; the man who beat him was none other than whom he will face next. Usman won their first encounter via unanimous decision on the UFC on Fox 17 card.

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UFC 278 will take place inside Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City and will be broadcast live on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View. Tickets go on sale on Friday, June 24 through Ticketmaster.