On Sunday 11th June, UFC welterweight champion, Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards, will be competing for the Soccer Aid World XI FC team in the upcoming Soccer Aid for UNICEF, taking place at Manchester United’s world-famous Old Trafford stadium.
Edwards will be joining a star-studded ensemble, including, Olympic legend Usain Bolt, performing artist Stormzy, former One Direction star Liam Payne and professional boxer Tommy Fury as well as many more.
The Birmingham based athlete shocked the world with one of the greatest comeback victories in UFC history to win his UFC title at UFC 278, will be trading the Octagon for goalposts, as he is set to start as a goalkeeper.
Since his title winning performance in August 2022, Edwards has become one of the UK’s breakthrough sporting stars in recent years following a title defence in front of a sell-out crowd at The O2, London last March. He is the second-ever British UFC champion in its 30-year history and will be the first UFC athlete to compete in Soccer Aid for UNICEF.
Outside of the Octagon, Jamaica-born Edwards is passionate about charity, acting as an ambassador for UFC’s youth mentoring program with OnSide, an initiative that offers young people weekly MMA classes and access to high quality sports facilities.
“It’s an honour for me to be playing and helping raise money for such a great cause. Come and support us – Soccer Aid is a great family day out. Through MMA I have built a great platform and fanbase. I hope others will support me in raising money for children and families across the world.”
Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards
Since 2006 – when UNICEF UK Ambassador Robbie Williams co-founded the concept – Soccer Aid for UNICEF has raised over £75 million to help give children all over the world a childhood full of play. Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2022, at the London Stadium, raised a record-breaking £15 million.
Tickets for the game are on sale now via www.socceraid.org.uk/tickets with a family of four able to attend for just £60 – two adults and two children.
