Taking on Jeremy Stephens in the night's co-main event, Barao tested his skills at featherweight, 10 pounds north of his usual bantamweight division. At 135 pounds, Barao captured the UFC title and thrice defended it before losing to T.J. Dillashaw at UFC 173. After bouncing back from that defeat with a win over Mitch Gagnon, Barao against lost to Dillashaw, this time signaling the need for change.
He found that adjustment in the form of a move up to 145, but the result was the same: defeat.
In Round 1, Barao showcased his speed, catching Stephens with some powerful punches and kicks.