At UFC 142, lightweight Edson Barboza continued his rise as he knocked out Terry Etim with a heel kick.
Barboza is now 10-0 with three straight “Fight of the Night” bonuses. Last night’s knockout also earned Barboza a “Knockout of the Night” bonus.
Barboza has only been competing in MMA since 2009, but he is becoming one of the best young up-and-comers in the UFC today.
Barboza has excellent striking that’s reminiscent of featherweight champ Jose Aldo.
Seven of his victories have come by knockout. Barboza is also a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has one submission victory to his credit.
What really makes Barboza a threat, though, is his take down defense.
The UFC’s lightweight division is stacked with great wrestlers. From champion Frankie Edgar, to challengers Benson Henderson and Gray Maynard, the division is known for having some of the best wrestlers in the UFC.
If a fighter can’t get Barboza down and keep him there like Etim was unable to do, it could spell trouble for them.
Barboza is such a diverse striker and thus far has proven that unless you can take him out, the fight is going to go his way.
Barboza is an exciting fighter and one of, if not the best striker in the lightweight division.
His striking, great defense, and youth will make him a big threat in the division and possibly a champion in the near future.
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