Edson Barboza got back into the win column tonight (Sat., July 25, 2015) at UFC on FOX 16 by handing undefeated Paul Felder his first professional defeat inside United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Barboza, 29, proved to be just a step faster than "Irish Dragon" throughout the three-round contest, landing several well-timed kicks, while avoiding Fedler's violent attacks and sometimes unorthodox techniques to earn a unanimous decision victory.
All three judges scored the fight 29-28.
In the opening round, both Felder and Barboza were getting off low kicks on one another, but "Irish Dragon" landed the first significant strike, a huge left hook, and Barboza's eye began to swell soon after. Barboza landed a glancing spinning-back fist and Felder gave him a fist bump for his efforts.
At around the 1:30 mark, Barboza connected with a spinning-back from Hades to Felder's groin, which halted the action (watch it here ... if you dare). The fight remained a stand up battle, with neither fighter getting the upper hand.
The fight remained standing in the second frame with both fighters attempting various spinning techniques. Felder nearly landed a backfist and Barboza a wheel kick. The Brazilian did attempt the first takedown of the fight, but was unsuccessful. The round concluded on the feet once again.
The final round was just as closely contested as the prior two -- Felder and Barboza once again hurled big punches and attempted more spinning attacks. Felder went in on a takedown attempt with 30 seconds left and had Barboza against the fence, but was unable to get the Brazilian to the mat.
The No. 7-ranked Lightweight improves to 16-3 overall and gets back into the win column after dropping a unanimous decision to Michael Johnson his last time out. Meanwhile, Felder loses for the first time in his career and is now 10-1 overall.
Even in defeat, Felder proved he is an up-and-comer to keep your eye on in one of the most competitive divisions in UFC.
For complete UFC on FOX 16: "Dillashaw vs. Barao 2" results, including play-by-play updates, click here.