BFN5 Highlight: Stephen Richards (Bangkok Boxing) vs Alex Barrios (Tampa Muay Thai)

[story originally reported by Next MMA Fighter]

170lbs - Pro Muay Thai Co-Main Event
Stephen Richards (Bangkok Boxing) vs Alex Barrios (Tampa Muah Thai)

Alex starts with some pretty stiff kicks. He attacks mostly the legs and chest. Stephen is able to catch one and throw a good punch combo. They get to a clinch and are about even in the exchanges there After disengaging Alex throws a head kicks that is a glancing blow. Alex gets back in a clinch and works some knees and elbows to throw Stephen off, some of the strikes have stunned Stephen. Alex pursues him and lands some punches and kicks but can’t finish him. The round comes to a close.

Round 2 Alex throws a kick that’s caught but still delivers some heavy blows to the head of Stephen. Alex weathers a few shots but is maintaining the upper hand in the fight winning most of the exchanges. Stephen begins breathing through the mouth and Alex continues ti pick him apart. Stephen is able to land a solid right that slows Alex down momentarily and follows up with a knee and punch attack that land solidly. Alex looks unfazed but they must be taking their toll. Alex eats 2 more big punches form Stephen and is wearing down. Stephen builds momentum with the landed strikes but is too tired to finish.

Round 3 Stephen comes out on the offensive and throws a few push kicks to wear Alex down further. Alex lands a few body kicks but Stephen is mustering some power shots. Stephen looks to be saving a big right hand but Alex keeps up the offensive. Stephen unleashes that right hand and drops Alex. Alex gets back up and they go back at it. Alex scores some with jabs and body kicks but Stephen hits a big punch again. The 3rd round ends with Alex hitting a few jabs.

Round 4 Alex catches a straight kick and throws a big right hand that Stephen weathers. Both fighters are letting it go in this round with strong punches and kicks. Alex lands a solid leg kick and after another exchange is able to score a takedown. Alex is keeping a pretty open guard and using elbows for power shots now. Alex is losing more and more of the exchanges and favors the kicks from the outside now. Stephen lands a solid right, even from range. The round expires. Great fight.

Stephen Richards def. Alex Barrios by unan. decision at the end of the 4th round.