http://mmajunkie.com/news/20580/dar...r-edson-barboza-planned-for-ufc-123-event.mma Edson Mendez Jr, known as Edson Barboza is almost unanimously the top LW prospect in the sport. He enters the octagon at 24 years old, and immediately one of the most highest credentials in striking in the organization. Not only is he one of the best, but he's also one of the most exciting prospects, a big 155 with good takedown defence, a working but respectable ground game(he's no fish on the ground, he's got subs, and was a submission wrestler in Brasil), and explosive Muy Thai striking. I hope Elkins family has good life insurance.
I had the privilage of watching him live last year in his debut. The reason I remember is because they were talking about him being one of the more accomplished Muay Thai fighters in MMA. 'Junior' was actually featured on the local news down here last night. He is the real deal. My brother thinks in 2-3 years he will be as revered in MMA as GSP or Silva. Not sure about that but, we will see. As information, The Armory is where Pelligrino formerly trained. And I think Hermes Franca is still there.