With UFC Fight Night only a few days away, the UFC just dropped an amazing promo for the upcoming featherweight matchup between veteran Edson Barboza and Giga Chikadze in the main event. Following a split decision loss to Paul Felder at UFC 242, Edson Barboza moved down to featherweight. Many experts questioned the move considering how lean Barboza was, even at lightweight.

Nevertheless, against everyone’s expectations, Barboza has looked incredibly sharp and is now on a two-fight win streak. Putting on stellar performances against young and hungry fighters such as Shane Burgos and Makwan Amirkhani. Now, the former lightweight is about to take on Giga Chikadze, a fighter who, according to many, is a more refined version of Barboza himself.

A former Kickboxer with a record of 38-6-0, Chikadze is perhaps one of the most dangerous pure strikers in the division. Chikadze made his UFC debut on Dana White’s contender series back in 2018 and is now on a six-fight win streak.

Both of his most recent wins were knockout victories, thanks to his lethal kicking ability. Although Chikadze might not be as powerful as Barboza, his pace and relentless output make him extremely effective.

Furthermore, unlike Barboza, who is an orthodox fighter, Chikadze can switch his stances with ease, which gives him a few more options in the standup area.

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Both fighters have a very similar style of fighting and prefer to keep the fight standing up. This is why this matchup is undoubtedly a striking fan’s dream come true. And come fight night, fans can expect fireworks inside the cage as the number nine and ten ranked featherweights go at it for three rounds.

Can Edson Barboza become the featherweight champion of the UFC?

A veteran of the sport, Edson Barboza made his UFC debut back in 2010 against Mike Lullo. The Kickboxing phenom has always had his eyes set on UFC gold but to no avail, at lightweight.

Now the 35-year-old has taken on the challenge of moving down to another weight class hoping to fulfill his lifelong dream. Additionally, his last two performances tell us he is ready to take on the top fighters in the division.

Edson Barboza certainly has the skills to strike the elite in the division. However, in order to make his way to a title shot, he must first get a win over the younger Chikadze this weekend.

What do you think? Can Edson Barboza become the featherweight champion of the UFC? Let us know in the comments?

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