Jalin Turner pays tribute to Edson Barboza after UFC 330 retirement

Jalin
Turner made quick work of Kaue
Fernandes in his second
Ultimate Fighting Championship bout back since a brief
retirement.

Turner, who announced he’s retiring from mixed martial arts in
March 2025 following a submission loss to Ignacio
Bahamondes, has now defeated both Edson
Barboza and Fernandes in consecutive bouts via first-round
finishes. He wants to keep the momentum going and inspire others
with his comeback.

Jalin Turner targets UFC lightweight rankings after stopping
Kaue Fernandes

“The Tarantula” said in a post-fight interview that the road back
to fighting has been challenging before paying homage to Barboza,
who retired at UFC
330.

“It’s just been a lot, you know, it’s been a tough road,” Turner
said. “The retirement was tough. I just want to pay homage to Edson
Barboza. He retired tonight. Shout out to him for an amazing
career. It was a blessing to share the Octagon with him. And I know
how tough that decision is.”

Turner, who called for a ranked lightweight next, said he hopes his
Octagon return can motivate others going through hardships.

“Me being here right now is just about love,” Turner said. “I just
want to help people. I want to shine a light; I’m trying to inspire
others no matter what they are going through in life, the ups and
downs, as you can always keep pushing and persevering.”