LAS VEGAS – Edson Barboza has put his title within the hat for the subsequent Baddest Motherf*cker title struggle within the UFC.
The longtime contender needs the promotion to present him a shot at Max Holloway, who just lately gained the BMF belt in iconic style final month at UFC 300. Barboza (24-11 MMA, 18-11 UFC), who fights Lerone Murphy (13-0-1 MMA, 5-0-1 UFC) this Saturday in the primary occasion of UFC Battle Night time 241, feels he’s finished greater than sufficient to deserve the chance. And if profitable on Saturday, Barboza needs subsequent on Holloway.
“If one man deserves to struggle for the BMF title, it’s me,” Barboza informed reporters on Wednesday at media day. “Who has higher spotlight knockouts than me? Bro, think about. I like Max Holloway, he’s certainly one of my favourite fighters ever. I like to observe him struggle, and he’s a really good man, very household man, however think about a struggle towards him for the BMF belt.
“It’s going to be very, superb for me and him and the corporate. Like I stated, I’ve 30 fights within the UFC. I believe I deserve that. After all, my focus is 100% on the subsequent one, however I believe it’s going to be good.”
Holloway is the third BMF champion within the quick historical past of the belt within the UFC. It was initially inaugurated in 2019 with a mega struggle between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz. Masvidal gained the title, and the belt stayed dormant as UFC CEO promised it was a one-and-done.
Nevertheless, final July, the belt was introduced again, and Gaethje claimed it by knocking out Dustin Poirier. Finally, the belt discovered its technique to Holloway after the Hawaiian knocked out Gaethje.
Like most individuals, Barboza was taken away by Holloway’s efficiency.
“Bro, like I stated, I like him,” Barboza stated. “I liked to observe the entire struggle. He confirmed coronary heart. He’s an important striker. He performed in all places. He’s positively certainly one of my favourite fighters ever to observe. I believe that he’s among the finest ever, and it’s going to be a pleasure sharing the octagon with him.”
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