Edson Barboza Wants ‘Big Name’ Nate Diaz Next
No. 5-ranked surging lightweight contender Edson Barboza hasn’t competed since scoring an impressive victory over former Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez last July, but the Brazilian is apparently looking to get back into the cage sometime soon, and it appears as if he has his eyes set on a big name.
“”(Nate Diaz) is a big name, he’s been in the UFC for a long time, he’s a great fighter. A couple guys are available in my division right now. Diaz is available. (Michael) Chiesa is available. I hope the UFC calls me really soon cause I keep training hard and I hope they call me soon,” Barboza told FOX Sports on Friday.
“These two guys are really good. Michael Chiesa is coming off some really good wins. Nate Diaz is very, very tough. It’s a war. I always step into the Octagon and I train for war and if I fight these two guys, it will be a war.”
While the No. 7-ranked Chiesa has indeed been on a roll as of late, Diaz undoubtedly possesses the bigger name. The Stockton native is currently ranked No. 4 in the 155-pound division and is coming off of a majority decision loss to Conor McGregor in their welterweight rematch at August’s UFC 202. Prior to that, he had scored a shocking submission victory over the Irishman last March.
Continuing on, Barboza once again reiterated that he’d like a ‘big’ fight, and given his place in the rankings, he feels as if he’s dangerously close to a shot at lightweight gold:
“I’m in a good position in the rankings. I need a big fight,” Barboza said. “Eddie (Alvarez) is a good example. He beat two good guys and he got the title shot. I think I’m really close to the title shot. I need one more big fight and then I’d definitely be close to the title shot.
“I’ve been in the UFC for a long time. I think I deserve a big fight to put me close to the title shot.”
Alvarez is set to defend his strap against McGregor at November 12’s UFC 205. Perhaps a bout between Barboza and Diaz would make sense, as it would likely produce a future title contender.
What are your thoughts on this potential clash?
