Edson Barboza will be sticking around.
MMAFighting was the first to report the news that Barboza has re-signed with the UFC on a multi-fight deal. The Brazilian’s manager, Alex Davis, confirmed the news to MMAFighting saying Barboza is ready to make a run for the belt.
“The UFC has opted to re-sign Barboza and keep him on the roster, and keep him active going forward,” Davis said. “Barboza and I believe he has what it takes to make a run for the belt and become champion, and that’s his focus.”
It is interesting to see Edson Barboza re-sign given just a few weeks ago, he was venting his frustration with the promotion.
“If the UFC wants to give me a fight, please, I’m ready, and I was training a lot December, January,” Barboza said to MMAJunkie. “I’m ready. If the UFC gives me an opportunity to fight real soon, to fight the last fight, I’m ready. If you’re going to renew my contract, let’s see what happens, or let me go. I have three options right now, but let’s see what happens. Like I said, I have one more fight, and I’m ready for this fight.”
What changed from then to now is uncertain. But, for many fans, this is no doubt good news to see Barboza remain a UFC fighter as he is always in entertaining bouts.
Barboza is coming off a decision win over Makwan Amirkhani in October. Before that, he dropped back-to-back split decision losses to Dan Ige and Paul Felder, in fights many thought he won. He also suffered a KO loss to Justin Gaethje before the controversial losses. In his career, the Brazilian holds notable wins over Dan Hooker, Beneil Dariush, Anthony Pettis, and Paul Felder.
When and who Edson Barboza will fight next is uncertain. But, after signing a new deal, it is likely his next fight should be coming soon.