“Used my dad’s death as entertainment,” Leon Edwards reveals disturbing event to after Colby Covington’s unhinged press conference

Leon Edwards shares his emotional journey, addressing the use of his father's death in pre-fight banter, and emphasizing the importance of respect and integrity in sports.

“Used my dad’s death as entertainment,” Leon Edwards reveals disturbing event to after Colby Covington’s unhinged press conference

Leon Edwards on emotions after UFC 296 press conference with Colby Covington (Image via: IMAGO, Sky Sports)

Leon Edwards cruised through a unanimous decision victory over Colby Covington at UFC 296. The fight was controversial due to the events that preceded the fight. Covington made remarks about Edwards’ dead father. It made Edwards throw his water bottle at Covington. The UFC community, including CEO Dana White, was not happy about the incident.

In the octagon interview with Joe Rogan, Edwards spoke about what he went through. This is what Edwards said to Rogan inside the octagon.

This fight was very emotional for me. This guy used my dad's death as entertainment. ... And it took a lot for me to calm down, stay focused, and come into this fight. ....After the press conference, I went backstage. I was crying because of the rage that you can't use my dad's death as entertainment. That's what he did, you know? Like to this day, it still breaks my heart. He got murdered....he said my dad should burn in hell.
Leon Edwards during octagon interview
YouTube video

Edwards revealed that he cried after what transpired at the press conference. The welterweight champion still holds his father dear to his heart, and Covington’s remark took an emotional toll on him. Rogan also talked about his emotions to Daniel Cormier and Jon Anik at the commentary booth.

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In the fight, Edwards put Covington immediately on the back foot and won the first four rounds of the bout. However, an error in judgment caused Edwards to be on his back in the final round. All the judges scored the fight 49-46 in his favor.

Leon Edwards non-commital about the next welterweight title challenger after Colby Covington

Belal Muhammad was the backup fighter for the UFC 296 main event. Moreover, Dana White promised the title shot to Muhammad after UFC 288 when he defeated Gilbert Burns. However, in the post-fight press conference at UFC 296, both White and Edwards did not specify who they want next in the title picture.

Leon Edwards remains on the hunt for a new opponent after defeating Colby Covington (via Imago)

When asked about Muhammad being next, White avoided the question. Moreover, Edwards did not entertain the idea that a 10-fight unbeaten streak deserved a title shot. Edwards got the title shot after an even longer winning streak.

Leon Edwards’ main objective is to break the record set by George St-Pierre, the arguable GOAT of the division. Moreover, he believes that Covington is past his prime, like the opponents he defeated. Edwards referenced Robbie Lawler, Jorge Masvidal, Tyron Woodley, and Rafael Dos Anjos.

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