Ribovics stops Barboza at UFC 330 as Brazilian retires

Esteban Ribovics defeated Edson Barboza by TKO at 1:32 of the second round at UFC 330, ending the Brazilian veteran’s UFC career. The lightweight bout opened the main card at Philadelphia’s Xfinity Mobile Arena.

Barboza began aggressively and continued to throw kicks, but Ribovics met him with heavy punches and forced him into close exchanges. The Argentine’s pressure limited the room Barboza needed to launch his most dangerous attacks from range.

Ribovics also found success with knees and looping punches as the opening round progressed. Barboza landed a spinning back kick and kicks to the body and leg, but he was rocked late in the round and went down. He held onto Ribovics to remain in the fight before returning to his corner with a deep cut on his leg and damage around his eye.

Barboza chose to continue for the second round, although the injured leg affected his kicking. Ribovics attacked immediately, then closed the distance when Barboza’s counters missed. Body shots drove the Brazilian backwards, and Ribovics continued the assault after pinning him against the fence.

The stoppage came after Ribovics connected with punches and elbows while Barboza remained upright but unable to answer effectively. The result gave Ribovics a second-round finish and brought Barboza’s long UFC run to an end.

After the bout, Barboza placed his gloves on the canvas to confirm his retirement. He and Ribovics were both interviewed by Joe Rogan, with Ribovics describing the fight as an honour. Barboza thanked those who had supported him and said he had always tried to give his best.