Klose’s Right Hand Spoiled Barboza’s Lightweight Return

Drakkar Klose defeated Edson Barboza by unanimous decision at UFC 319 on August 16, 2025. Every judge scored the three-round lightweight contest 29–28 for Klose at United Center in Chicago.

Barboza’s kicks met Klose’s attempts to close distance

Barboza returned to lightweight after a run in the featherweight division. He immediately tried to work at kicking range, while Klose looked to bring the exchanges closer.

Klose established an overhook and moved Barboza toward the fence before the fight returned to open space. A late right hand and short uppercuts gave Klose stronger moments near the end of the first round.

The second round produced Klose’s best offense

Klose increased his aggression after the restart, connecting with straight rights and even adding a spinning heel kick. Barboza appeared hurt near the fence before a clinch helped him recover.

Further exchanges favored Klose’s heavier punches, although neither fighter found a finish. All three judges awarded Klose the second round, making that frame the common foundation of his eventual decision victory.

Different round totals still produced one winner

The closing round was more measured, with Klose returning to his right hand and Barboza trying to create openings with leg kicks. Clinch exchanges interrupted the action before the final horn.

Two judges gave Klose the last two rounds, while the third favored him in the first two. The unanimous verdict returned him to winning form after a defeat to Joel Álvarez and left Barboza without a successful homecoming to the lightweight division.

Sources

• Cageside Press: kicks, right hands and clinch exchanges
• MMA Decisions: individual judges’ round-by-round scores
• UFC: preceding Álvarez loss and August 16 result
• United Center: Chicago venue and date

Tags

UFC, MMA