Edson Barboza vs. Michael Johnson set as co-main event for UFC Fight Night in Brazil
Two of the top lightweights in the world will square off in the newly announced co-main event for UFC Fight Night on February 22 as Edson Barboza meets Michael Johnson in Brazil.
UFC officials announced the new matchup on Sunday.
Barboza (15-2) is fresh off his biggest career win after dispatching Bobby Green in his last fight, which put the Brazilian striker all the way up to No. 6 in the divisional rankings.
Known as one of the most vicious kickers in the sport, Barboza has long been considered a top prospect at 155-pounds, but now he's a legitimate threat to the title after going 5-1 in his last six fights.
Johnson (15-8) will return to action after missing most of 2014 due to injury. The former Ultimate Fighter finalist kicked off the year winning his third straight fight, which put him into the lightweight top 15, but injuries kept him on the sideline through the end of 2014.
Now refreshed with a healthy body, Johnson is ready to get back in the Octagon as he travels to Brazil with a chance to crack the top 10 facing a fighter the caliber of Barboza.
UFC Fight Night from Brazil is headlined by a light heavyweight showdown between former champion Rashad Evans and Glover Teixeira, who looks to bounce back after dropping two consecutive bouts in the promotion.
