Leon Edwards has promised to dethrone Nigerian UFC welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman, when both fighters clash at UFC 278 in the early hours of Sunday, August 21 at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City.

This will be the second clash between both fighters in seven years after Usman defeated the Brit via unanimous decision, only the second loss Edwards has suffered in the UFC franchise since making his debut in 2014. Edwards has since gone 10 fights undefeated winning nine while one was a no contest to get himself into a title contender position.

Usman since their first meeting, his first official fight in the UFC has gone on to become champion beating Tyrone Woodley via unanimous decision and has further gone on to defend his title five times against Colby Covington (twice), Jorge Mashvidal (twice) and Gilbert Burns winning three of those fights via knockouts.

Usman well known for his wrestling capabilities has improved his striking which has seen him been named the best pound for pound fighter in the franchise, however, Edwards who is also known for his striking has promised to humble Usman and not only become the welterweight champion but also avenge the loss he suffered seven years ago. 

“It’s not personal for me, I believe I’m number one but it’s [fame] clearly getting to his head. I’m going to humble you Saturday night,” Edwards said but this might be a tall order as Usman is on a 19-fight winning streak.

“If I was him I’d come out and try and wrestle, but I think he’ll try and strike. He’s fallen in love with it and that’s natural, but I’m leaps ahead of him when it comes to striking. Skillset-wise he has improved, he’s shown in his fights he’s comfortable on his feet. But we’re both two different fighters to what we were seven years ago.

“I’m going in with the mindset of being a champion, it’s been a long road for me to get here,” he added.