• UFC 146

Barboza in no hurry to secure lightweight title shot

March 15, 2012

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Brazilian sensation Edson Barboza insists he is in no rush to get a UFC lightweight title shot, despite his burgeoning reputation following his knockout of Terry Etim.

It is widely believed Barboza already has the Knockout of the Year award tied up following his finish of England's Etim, which came via a spinning wheel kick.

The Brazilian is among the best strikers in the 155lb division, but his next bout is not expected to feature on the main card of UFC 146. Fighting Evan Dunham, Barboza will have to rely on his skills to keep creating headlines for him, and he insists there is no hurry to propel himself to the top of the division.

"My next step is to keep fighting against the best fighters," Barboza told MMA Junkie. "It's what I want. I'm not in a hurry. When I will have the chance to be fighting for the title I will be ready. But now I am focused on my next fight.

"When I am in the Octagon, I just think of doing my job, my game and a good fight. Of course the fighters look forward to a knockout or submission, and it can happen along the fight. But I'm focused on doing my own game."

Reflecting on that victory over Etim, the 26-year-old recalls: "Man, sometimes I catch myself watching this movement and I still can't believe it. It was cool. I haven't trained that kick as much, but I tried to do that during the fight.

"I think God blessed me and I could do it the right way and at the right time. But now, two months after that, I think it was one thing that I am letting in my past and I am focused on my next fight now."

If there is a doubt over Barboza, it is arguably his takedown defence after Etim succeeded with several takedown attempts. The Brazilian's ability to spring straight back to his feet was impressive, but Dunham will test this area of his game still further.

"I know he is a good wrestler, and he is a great fighter," Barboza said of Dunham. "I think it will be a great, cool and tough fight. I am training for that."

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