MMA fighter Edson Barboza hasn’t had much luck when it comes to his UFC career in terms of card placement. However, he is feeling his essence as he prepares for his ninth fight, against Billy Quarantillo in a featherweight bout in the UFC. Despite having been a UFC main event fighter three times, Barboza, the flashy Brazilian fighter, seems to enjoy being the center of attention.
In an interaction with MMA Junkie and other reporters at Wednesday’s media day, Barboza joked and said: “I think I’m the ‘King of the Co-Main Event’. Nobody in the UFC has the co-main event more than me.”
He also added: “I’m very excited. Quarantillo is a great fighter. He’s a tough guy, he gets on with it. I’m going to do a show, I’m very excited. I know it’s going to be a big war.“
Barboza’s next fight is not only to get back on track, but also to get back into shape after taking time off to heal his surgically repaired knee.
In October, Barboza was due to face Ilia Topuria, but had to withdraw due to knee problems. Although it was a difficult decision to make, Barboza was struggling even to walk, let alone prepare for a fight.
Barboza also said: “I have a very serious injury, I have three different knee injuries. For the first time in my career, I had to leave a fight and enjoy my family. But I’m 100% recovered now. I really enjoyed being with my family, but it’s time to get back to work.“