Credited from: BBC
Key Points:
In a stunning display at UFC London, American fighter Sean Brady upset Leon Edwards with a dominant performance, ultimately securing a submission victory via guillotine choke in the fourth round. This match took place at the O2 Arena, where Brady maintained his pressure throughout, leading to a tap-out at 1:39 of Round 4.
Brady's victory is particularly significant as it positions him to challenge for the UFC welterweight title, currently held by Belal Muhammad. The American was a late replacement, stepping in shortly after the birth of his child, and he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. "I took this fight the day I got out of the hospital with my wife and our newborn baby," he shared, indicating his determination against the former champion.
During the fight, Brady started strong, applying relentless grappling pressure on Edwards, who struggled to regain control after a promising first round. Edwards managed to fend off some of Brady's takedown attempts, but the American's ground game proved too dominant, leading to his eventual submission victory. “I just showed that against one of the most prestigious champions recently. I think I belong in the top three, top one for sure,” Brady emphasized after the match.
Edwards, who was looking to bounce back after losing his title to Muhammad in July of the previous year, now faces the reality of consecutive defeats. Having held the welterweight title for nearly three years, the Briton's ambitions may now be hindered as he faces a tough road ahead.
Aside from the notable main event, UFC London featured several other matchups, including Carlos Ulberg defeating Jan Blachowicz and Kevin Holland overcoming Gunnar Nelson. In women's strawweight, Molly McCann announced her retirement following a loss.
The win positions Brady as a frontline contender, likely to face Muhammad in a title bout at UFC 315 scheduled for May. With the welterweight division heating up, Brady's victory adds an exciting twist to the championship landscape.