Michael Johnson wins decision, calls out Benson Henderson
Michael Johnson didn't waste time on Sunday night shaking off any rust that may have collected in the 11 months since he last competed, as The Blackzilian jumped all over Edson Barboza from Round 1, on Barboza's home turf at UFC Fight Night in Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Johnson pressed Barboza with good head movement and punches, while the Brazilian struggled to get off with his kicks. In the second, Barboza at least got in the fight, but a takedown attempt from the flashy striker spoke volumes about how well Johnson was doing on the feet.
In the third round, Johnson continued to press forward with effective punches, as well as score a takedown to seal the deal. All three judges saw the fight for Johnson and scored it 30-27 (twice) and 29-28 for the American.
After winning, Johnson gave credit to his opponent and called out a former champion. "I take back everything I said about [Barboza's] chin, because he's got a hell of a chin," he said.
"I want that belt by the end of the year."
Johnson already has four straight wins against top competition in the UFC's lightweight division. Now, he seems to think that beating former champion Benson Henderson will get him the attention he needs to earn a title shot.
"I guess people wanted to see Benson Henderson versus the winner of this," he said.
The win improves Johnson's record to 17-8. The loss snapped a two-fight win streak for Barboza and dropped his excellent career record to 15-3.
