A back-and-forth light heavyweight battle filled with plenty of strike trading saw the power of Christian Edwards help elevate him to a win over Rodolfo Bellato during the UFC Vegas 121 prelims.
Bellato had an early edge, thanks to a first round in which he repeatedly pressed Edwards up to the fence. This was cemented when he landed a left hook that dropped Edwards, and he nearly locked up a rear-naked choke.
Knowing he needed a strong comeback, Edwards’ striking was on point during round two, landing close-range shots and executing his jab and kicks to show life. Edwards continued to control and press the action in the third, landing a number of punches upstairs while battling in the clinch.
Edwards then sealed the deal with a late third-round left hook that put Bellato out.
This is Edwards’ first UFC win. The former Bellator veteran fought Modestas Bukauskas to a split decision loss in his UFC debut this past May.
