On Saturday night, T.J. Dillashaw put on his most impressive performance to date against former champion Renan Barao. Coming in to this fight all eyes were on Dillashaw, to see if he good replicate his shocking victory against Barao last year. Dillashaw did not replicate his performance, he exceeded it. Over the course of 4 rounds TJ picked apart the extremely talented Barao, before stopping him with a sublime barrage of punches in the 4th round.
Official result:T.J. Dillashaw def. Renan Barao via TKO (punches) at 0:35 of Rd 4.
What was the high point of the fight?
TJ’s entire performance was amazing in this fight. From the opening bell Dillashaw’s movement was on point and he was able to establish his hands early, catching Barao whenever the Brazilian leaped forward. The high point of this fight was the finish – Dillashaw uncorked a precision combo against the cage that left Barao dazed and confused.
Where do these two go from here?
It’s time for the big one. Next time out Dillashaw needs to face Dominick Cruz to determine who is the baddest bantamweight on the planet. A victory over Cruz would propel Dillashaw into the stardom that he deserves. Dominick Cruz deserves a chance to win back the belt that he never truly lost. Let’s just hope Cruz can stay healthy long enough for this fight to materialise.
Barao will go down as one of the greatest bantamweights of all time, but I feel his days at 135lbs are over. A move to the featherweight division would reinvigorate Barao’s career and more importantly, give him the opportunity to enter the cage healthier. The 145lbs division is stacked with wrestlers and Barao has proved his takedown defence is amazing. I can see Barao making it into the featherweight top 10 with ease.
Watch now, later, or never?
Watch this one right now. For any student of the game this fight is a must watch.