By: David Smith
Image Credit: UFC
In one of the most iconic moments of the year, Leon Edwards knocked out Kamaru Usman to become the new UFC welterweight champion.
After losing the first round, Kamaru Usman was on his way to securing a comfortable win over Leon Edwards by winning round 2,3, and 4. Usman was winning the 5th round until Leon landed the head kick.
This was the first knockout loss of Kamaru Usman and his first ever loss in UFC. After a 15-fight winning streak, Usman suffered defeat at the hands of Leon Edwards.
Kamaru Usman would have solidified his place as the greatest of all time had he won the fight against Leon Edwards. Usman was one win away from breaking Anderson Silva's 16 fight win streak record.
However, Kamaru Usman lost the fight at UFC 278 and lost an opportunity to break Silva's record. It should also be considered that Silva had 10 title defenses in his winning streak.
On the other hand, Kamaru Usman has only 4 title defenses in his resume. But, many fans would have called Usman the welterweight GOAT had he beaten Leon Edwards at UFC 278.
However, the KO loss to Edwards will change the perception of fans. Many fans would even argue that Usman will need a win over Edwards to call himself the welterweight GOAT.
Despite the loss, it's hard to deny the fact Kamaru Usman will be considered as one of the greatest of all time once he is done with his MMA career.
Dana White already has big plans for Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards trilogy after the thrilling ending to the rematch at UFC 278