E. Barboza (photo) is coming off a defeat to M. Johnson in Porto Alegre. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
Current seventh place in the lightweight category ranking, Edson Barboza knows that he needs a good victory to recover from the setback to Michael Johnson at UFC Porto Alegre, in February this year. And the Brazilian already has the right fight in mind to turn things around: the controversial Nate diaz. In an interview, Barboza assured that he is interested in facing the former title challenger, who is coming off a defeat to another Tupiniquim athlete, the current champion. Rafael dos Anjos.
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“I think this (fight against Nate diaz) is a good fight. Yes, man. I would accept it with a big smile right now. I need to fight. It doesn't matter who my opponent will be or their position in the rankings. I need to fight because I lost my last fight. My focus is on coming back stronger and winning”, said the fighter, on the “MMA Junkie Radio” podcast, taking the opportunity to comment on his performance in the defeat to Johnson. “Everyone knows I didn’t play my game well. I wasn't the best Edson Barboza at that night. I was very angry because I know I'm a better fighter than I was that night,” he said.
But a duel against the younger brother of Nick Diaz is not the only option for Barboza. The Brazilian is also considering changing categories, as he considers himself at a height disadvantage compared to his rivals in the 70,3 kg division. “I know most of the guys are bigger than me at lightweight. I'm very light in the category. Today, I weigh 80 kg. Very light. I think if they give me a good opportunity at featherweight, I would go down, because weighing 70,3 kg is very easy for me”, he guaranteed.
At 29, Edson Barboza has a professional record of 15 wins and just three losses. Born in Nova Friburgo, but based in the United States, Barboza has two wins and one loss in his last three fights.
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