Fight Of The Night Preview: Edson Barboza vs Michael Johnson
Fans around the world will tune in to watch UFC Fight Night 61 this coming Sunday (February 22nd) as the promotion heads back to Brazil. Rio Grande Du Sol will play host to the event headlined by Frank Mir vs Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva, but there’s another big fight perhaps getting overlooked.
Streaking lightweights Edson Barboza and Michael Johnson will square off in the evening’s co-main event, and that’s my early pick for FOTN (fight of the night). The Brazilian striker is renowned for his savage Muay Thai, which he employs to devastating effect whilst in the octagon. You only need to glance at his record to see how dangerous Barboza is.
“Junior” has two TKO victories by leg kicks, a spinning wheel kick knockout, TKO by body kick, knockouts by punches. This guy can finish you with just about any part of his arsenal. His opponent “The Menace” has come on leaps and bounds with his striking, so much so that he actually dominated highly touted banger Melvin Guillard in the stand up.
Another reason that Edson Barboza vs Michael Johnson is so intriguing is that the winner will be teetering on breaking the top five at lightweight. In fact, The Brazilian will probably perforate that skilled section of the rankings if he beats the number 12 ranked Blackzilians fighter on Sunday.
Johnson started his UFC career as the runner up on The Ultimate Fighter 12, losing a humdrum decision to a forgettable Jonathan Brookins. He has since gone 7-3, evolving his striking skills and proving that he is more worthy than second place on a reality TV show. Should he topple Barboza, there’s no reason that he shouldn’t get a top five guy for his next fight.
Mark my words, Edson Barboza vs Michael Johnson has all the makings of an instant classic. Check out some “Junior” highlights below, and stay tuned to LowKickMMA!
