He’s only 27 years old, but Renan Barao could match MMA legends Chuck Liddell, Frank Shamrock and Pat Miletich with a fourth consecutive UFC title defense on Saturday.
In his most recent outing, Barao stopped Urijah Faber with strikes in the first round. Following another Dominick Cruz injury, it was Barao’s first appearance as undisputed champion. Now the Brazilian is lined up to battle a Faber training partner in TJ Dillashaw.
Since losing to John Dodson in The Ultimate Fighter 14 finale, Dillashaw has won five of six fights. The Team Alpha Male fighter has only lost to Raphael Assuncao during that span, and that bout ended in a controversial split decision. According to MMADecisions.com, many MMA media members felt Dillashaw should have earned a win over Assuncao.
Justice may have been served, as Dillashaw will get his shot at the 135-pound championship before Assuncao, who is currently injured. Here is a closer look at how Dillashaw might match up with Barao in all areas.