Edson Barboza analyzes his undefeated rival at UFC Las Vegas 92 and assesses his chances of a place in the Hall of Fame

Edson Barboza won at UFC Vegas 81. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/@ufc

With more than 10 years of organization, Edson Barboza is close to holding a new main fight in the biggest MMA organization in the world. Protagonist of UFC Las Vegas 92, which takes place this Saturday (18), the Brazilian spoke exclusively to SUPER FIGHTS about the challenge against Lerone murphy on the weekend. In addition to evaluating his rival, the Friborg native took stock of his long career in the company and analyzed his future presence in the Hall of Fame.

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A former lightweight standout (up to 70,3kg) and current number 12 in the featherweight division (up to 65,7kg), Barboza remains focused on his dream of winning a title in the company. If they win the next match, Tupiniquim could take an important step towards the top 10 in the division.

Heavyweight fighters

Famous for his aggressive ability to shock fans with plastic knockouts, Edson debuted in the UFC in 2010. Since then, the fighter has collected strong opponents and described the feeling of having tested himself against big names in the sport.

“I only fought against the best. That is great. I want to be remembered as a guy who always worked hard, who dedicated himself 100% to what he loved. When they talk about Edson Barboza, I want them to say: 'that guy worked really hard to get to where he is”, said the athlete.

Difficulty finding rivals

In 2020, Edson created great controversy by publicly asking for his release from the UFC. At the time, the athlete questioned the lack of commitments and the absence of rivals for challenges. Years later, the fighter stated that he still has problems finding opponents.

“Most of the guys I fight are behind me in the rankings. Whoever is in front of me doesn't want to fight me, because they know it's going to be a tough fight. Win or lose, it will be war. It continues to be difficult to pick a fight for me,” she declared.

Place in the Hall of Fame

Pivot of scary knockouts, like the over Terry emo, on 2012, Beneil Dariush, in 2017, and Shane burgos, 2021, Barboza won over fans around the world with his overwhelming style. Feared by many opponents in the MMA world, the Brazilian is evaluating the possibility of joining the UFC Hall of Fame.

“The numbers speak for themselves. This will be my 30th fight in the UFC. I'm the athlete with the most 'Performance' bonuses. Who has a list of more beautiful knockouts than me? I believe (that he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame). If it happens, great. If not, no problem,” he said.

Opponent analysis

On the weekend, Edson Barboza will be committed to defending the 12th position in the ranking, stopping the opponent's rise, in addition to taking away the invincibility of Lerone murphy from the UFC. Respectfully, the Brazilian analyzed his opponent's qualities.

“He is a great fighter, who is undefeated. Excellent in all areas. He fights standing up, on the fence, on the ground. It's going to be a war and I have to be ready. I always prepare for war. I'm sure it will be a great fight”, he said.

Athletes' history

At 38, Edson Barboza is heading towards his 36th challenge in professional MMA. Throughout his career, the Friborg native has accumulated 24 wins and six defeats.

Representative of the sport since 2016, Lerone murphy defends undefeated record in the sport. At 32 years old, the fighter has 13 wins and one draw.