Watch: Barboza KOs Dariush with nasty flying knee
UNREAL! @EdsonBarbozaJr is a human highlight reel. Flying Knee to the moon landed on Dariush FTW. #UFCFortaleza https://t.co/PNJtzlLvz6
— FOX Sports: UFC (@UFCONFOX) March 12, 2017
Edson Barboza wasn't going to let Beneil Dariush beat him at his own game.
After being outstruck through the opening round and change, "Junior" cracked Dariush with a perfectly timed flying knee that brought an abrupt end to their battle of lightweight contenders at 3:35 of the second round at UFC Fight Night 106 in Fortaleza, Brazil.
Dariush did everything right to neutralize a deadly striker in Barboza prior to the flash KO. The 27-year-old constantly pressured the Brazilian and fearlessly initiated the leather exchanges, which kept Barboza from setting his feet and uncorking his patented kicks that had previously put many a mortal to sleep.
Poxa da pra ouvir o barulho dos golpes#UFCFortaleza pic.twitter.com/6BqHwHnwRS
— ɑnymorevn ☆ (@AnymoreVN) March 12, 2017
The California product couldn't maintain that frenetic pace and striking output past the opening round, though, and after Dariush's fatigue reared its ugly head and his offense showed signs of waning, Barboza expertly produced his thunderous coup de grace that left a ducking Dariush limp for an early Knockout of the Year candidate.
Barboza - seeded fifth in the divisional rankings heading into Saturday's tilt - extended his winning streak to three with his latest highlight-reel finish, and called for a title shot moments after his hand was raised.
The ninth-ranked Dariush saw a two-fight win streak snapped with his second loss in the Octagon. All three of the Kings MMA member's professional defeats have come by way of stoppage.