33-1 Boxer Arnold Barboza Jr. Announces Transition to UFC: "I’m Gonna Get That UFC Belt"
Arnold Barboza Jr., a surging boxer with a formidable 33-1 record, wants to try his hand at MMA and claims he has what it takes to become champion.
Pro boxing standout Arnold Barboza Jr. is ready to test his skills where very few top-tier boxers dare to tread: inside the Octagon. The 33-1 light welterweight contender recently dropped a massive bombshell, revealing plans to dedicate four months strictly to MMA training in Thailand as he prepares for a historic dual-sport run in the UFC featherweight division.
Barboza isn't just looking for a quick crossover payday or a single gimmick fight. The California native insists he is coming for real gold at 145 pounds, aiming to become one of the rare combat sports athletes actively competing in both world-class boxing and high-level MMA simultaneously.
"I'm gonna dedicate 4 months of just training, imma go to Thailand," Barboza said regarding his upcoming career pivot. "I'm trying to go to the UFC. Imma be one of the first boxers to do boxing and UFC at the same time... I’m gonna get that UFC belt… I’ll be at 145 lbs."
From Sparring UFC Vets to Chasing Featherweight Gold
While cross-sport transitions often draw skepticism from MMA purists, Barboza already got a taste of real octagon energy during a viral sparring session with UFC veteran King Green. In that exchange, Barboza showcased his crisp, high-volume boxing prowess on the feet, though the session offered an immediate reminder of MMA’s versatility when Green caught him in a submission once grappling entered the picture.
That reality check appears to have fueled Barboza’s determination rather than discouraged it. By heading to Thailand, a hub for elite Muay Thai and MMA camps, the top-ranked boxer aims to shore up his takedown defense and kicking game before stepping into UFC competition.
If Barboza successfully secures a UFC contract, he will enter a stacked featherweight division filled with world-class wrestlers and dynamic strikers. Crossing over from 12-round boxing matches to small-glove combat is a daunting challenge, but Barboza's supreme confidence suggests he is fully committed to making noise in the cage.
