ABU DHABI – For Paul Felder, his rematch with Edson Barboza at UFC 242 is purely about business.
Felder (16-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC) isn’t looking to stir the pot as he gets set to run it back with Barboza. Saturday’s fight marks a key bout in the lightweight division. Felder has the utmost respect for his opponent, and he knows that’s exactly how Barboza (20-7 MMA, 14-7 UFC) is carrying himself, as well.
“This is about martial arts for me,” Felder said Wednesday at UFC 242 open workouts. “It’s because I love what I do. That’s how Edson is. I promise that’s what we’re going to put on display for you guys, a war of martial arts and integrity.”
Felder suffered his first career loss in a unanimous decision to Barboza at UFC on FOX 16 in July 2015. Both men have come a long way since then, with more ups and downs occurring over the past four years.
It’s a huge moment for Felder to be given a chance to avenge a loss, he said. The outcome in his first meeting with Barboza has resonated closely with him, and he intends on producing a different result in the rematch.
“I just want to get this one back so bad,” Felder said. “Four years ago I lost to Edson, and I was young. I was green, and it was only my third UFC fight. I just want to show what I’m made of. It’s been on my mind for four years.”
UFC 242 takes place Saturday at The Arena in Yas Island. The main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims on FX and ESPN+/UFC Fight Pass.
Watch the video above to hear more from Felder at UFC 242 open workouts.
