• UFC 142

UFC title the goal for Etim as he faces Barboza at 142

ESPN staff
January 11, 2012
Terry Etim is ready for a stand-up war with Edson Barboza © UFC
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Terry Etim insists Edson Barboza represents nothing more than a stepping stone to the UFC lightweight title, so there will be no bad blood between the two at UFC 142 this weekend.

One of the quieter voices on the UFC roster, Etim rarely calls out anybody. In his mind, if he is good enough and works hard enough, his rewards will come.

A fight with Barboza - the undefeated Barboza - at UFC 142 represents arguably the biggest test of Etim's career. His opponent is in his home town, and he is full of confidence.

Etim is happy to allow the emotion of the occasion to affect Barboza though, insisting the UFC belt is the only thing on his mind.

"I want to fight the best guys. Before a fight, I never look past the guy in front of me. But my goal is definitely the UFC title," Etim told ESPN.

"My main focus right now is Edson Barboza - I won't look past him. But the day I'm not aiming for the UFC title is the day I'm plodding through my career.

"I don't go into the Octagon with bad emotions, otherwise you make a mistake. That's why I don't have anger towards my opponents; I'll always go in with a clear head and get the win."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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