Green Admits Learning Real Boxing From Barboza

UFC lightweight King Green says he learned a humbling lesson about professional boxing after sparring with WBO interim super lightweight champion Arnold Barboza Jr.

Green recently made waves by outboxing Bang Williams, a pro boxer who trains under Adrien Broner, in sparring footage that went viral. The veteran fighter then issued an open challenge to all professional boxers, which Barboza accepted.

Barboza's Peekaboo Defense Shut Down Green's Attack

The session did not unfold as Green anticipated. According to Sherdog, Barboza used a tight peekaboo guard and disciplined footwork to control the sparring, leaving Green with few openings. "I learned today what real boxing is," Green said on his Instagram Stories. "In my head, I thought we'd be all guns. But Arnold came out with peekaboo, tight stuff. So, he is not open to no attacks."

Green explained that Barboza showed him the difference between brawling and technical boxing. "He showed me real boxing where he came in, gave me no way to work. He would open up, pop, pop, pop, close back up," he said.

The 36-17 lightweight is riding a four-fight UFC winning streak with three finishes, most recently stopping Terrance McKinney in the first round. Green and Barboza reportedly parted without animosity after the session.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — King Green admits being humbled by a real boxer