5 potential opponents for Edson Barboza after UFC 272 loss

#4. Edson Barboza vs. Ryan Hall

Ryan Hall holds a record of 9-2

There may not be two fighters in the UFC with more contrasting styles than Edson Barboza and Ryan Hall. Barboza is known for his lethal striking and in particular, his arsenal of kicks, while Hall is a master of Brazillian jiu-jitsu and specifically the heel hook. Seeing how this would play out in the octagon would be fun.

Hall is another fighter who appears to be on the verge of breaking into the featherweight rankings. He has only lost once in the UFC to Ilia Topuria, who is now receiving his shot to break into the rankings. 'The Wizard' definitely appears to be deserving of this opportunity and has even submitted B.J. Penn.

This fight would be a fascinating clash of styles and would answer some important questions in the featherweight division. It would tell us whether Hall is ready to enter the rankings or whether Barboza still deserves his status as one of the best featherweights on the planet.

---

#3. Edson Barboza vs. Cub Swanson

Cub Swanson holds a record of 28-12

Cub Swanson established his status as a legend of the sport some time ago, but his recent performances could earn him a shot in the rankings. While he may be 38, Swanson has won three of his last four fights. His lone loss during that time came against Giga Chikadze.

Chikadze followed up that performance by then defeating Edson Barboza, so it makes sense that the two men he defeated now square off. After their respective fights with the Georgian, Swanson picked up a win and Barboza suffered a further loss.

These results, combined with the fact Barboza remains a ranked fighter in the division, should explain why this fight makes sense. On paper, the pair are very evenly matched, and so a bout between them seems appropriate. They are also two UFC veterans and deserve a high-profile match-up like this one.