UFC 296 Results: Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington
Exciting Moments at UFC 296
Welterweight Showdown
At UFC 296’s final showdown in 2023, two major title fights took the spotlight. The reigning champion, Leon Edwards, with a stellar record of 22 wins and 3 losses, successfully defended his welterweight title against the third-ranked Colby Covington. The decision was unanimous in Edwards’ favor, making it his 13th consecutive victory. Unfortunately for Covington.
BIRMINGHAM TO THE WORLD 🏆🌎@Leon_EdwardsMMA defeats Colby Covington by unanimous decision to defend the welterweight title!
— UFC (@ufc) December 17, 2023
[ #UFC296 | B2YB @Manscaped ] pic.twitter.com/ALhF41XPo3
UFC 296 Results: Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington
This marked his third loss in title fights, including defeats against former champion Kamaru Usman. His lone victory for the interim welterweight title in 2018 was short-lived due to injury-related stripping.
UFC 296 Results: Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington
Flyweight Clash
In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja faced off against Brandon Royval in a nail-biting contest that went the distance. Pantoja emerged victorious, retaining his title with a dominant performance.
The Brazilian now boasts the second-highest number of wins in the UFC’s flyweight division, totaling 11.
Impressive Streaks
Shavkat Rakhmonov, with an undefeated record of 18-0, showcased his skills on the main card. In the second round, he secured a submission against veteran Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, marking Thompson’s first submission loss in his professional career.
Tony Ferguson’s Struggles
Former interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson faced Paddy Pimblett on the main card but fell short of his past glory. Ferguson, now on a seven-fight losing streak, faced a tough matchup. Meanwhile, Pimblett, despite struggling to finish the seasoned Ferguson, secured a victory with all three judges scoring 30-27.
Quick Finish in Featherweight Bout
Featherweights Josh Emmett and Bryce Mitchell replaced the original matchup on short notice. Emmett’s opponent, Giga Chikadze, withdrew due to injury, leading to a match lasting less than two minutes. Emmett’s powerful overhand right resulted in an instant knockout, leaving Mitchell in convulsions after the quick finish.