Checked out, but not tuned out. That would be the best way to describe my mindset as the fight clock ticked down during the Kamaru Usman vs. Leon Edwards bout on Saturday night.
I doubt I was the only one in that particular headspace when the welterweight matchup marched into its final 60 seconds.
As the fifth and final round opened, UFC commentator Joe Rogan said of Edwards’ dimming hope of becoming a UFC champion, “This is do or die for Leon Edwards… He’s gotta do something big. He’s gotta do something really big. He’s gotta open himself up.