LEON EDWARDS head-kicked his way into the history books to become the UK's second UFC champion with a brutal stoppage of Kamaru Usman.
The pride of Birmingham challenged Usman for the welterweight title early this morning in the main event of UFC 278 in Salt Lake City.
Edwards, 30, started well but succumbed to the pressure and wrestling of Usman in the second, third and fourth rounds.
Usman, 35, looked on course to retain his title courtesy of a unanimous decision victory.
But Edwards had other ideas, putting The Nigerian Nightmare to sleep with a picture-perfect head kick.
The kick sent the Vivint Arena into pandemonium and blew away UFC commentator Joe Rogan.
READ MORE IN SPORT
Brit Edwards brutally KO’s Usman at UFC 278 to become UK’s second UFC champ
UFC 278’s Leon Edwards is the ex-tearaway who was thrown into MMA by his mum
He said: "That is the greatest head-kick knockout in the history of the UFC."
British MMA fans were blown away by the stoppage, with one saying: "I cannot believe it.
"This is why we stay up past 6am to watch this s**t man."
Another said: "This f***ing sport is so unpredictable. Congrats Leon Edwards."
SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
Most read in MMA
Brit Edwards brutally KO's Usman at UFC 278 to become UK's second UFC champ
Emotional Rockhold retires after bloody UFC 278 war with Paulo Costa
Latest updates as Brit star Edwards goes for world title glory
Conor McGregor launches foul-mouthed tirade at Carl Froch
And another said: "Birmingham stand up!!!"
In his post-fight interview, an emotional Edwards said: "I can't put it into words, Joe.
"It's been a long four years. You all doubted me and said I couldn't do it.
"You all said I couldn't do it. Look at me now. Never again. Pound-for-pound, what? Headshot dead. That's it."
He added: "I know [I was behind] on the scorecards I know.
Read More on The Sun
SeaWorld trainer screamed ‘my neck’s broken’ after being slammed by 6,000lb orca
I want to use my guilty pleasure baby name but people think I’m crazy
"But it doesn't matter, I'm from the trenches. I'm built like this. I go until it's done.
"I'm from the trenches. I've been doubted my whole life, but look at me now. Look at me now."
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
Source: Read Full Article