COLUMBUS, Ohio – Bryan Barberena’s upcoming fight may not be in a main or co-main event slot, but he sure feels like it’s the main attraction of the card.

The UFC welterweight takes on fellow veteran Matt Brown on the main card of UFC on ESPN 33, which goes down on Saturday night. Barberena (16-8 MMA, 7-6 UFC) has the tough task to take on Brown (23-18 MMA, 16-12 UFC) in his hometown, but he’s more than cherishing the position.

With nine combined Performance of the Night bonuses, Barberena expects fireworks in his clash against Brown, and believes that it’s the fight to watch.

“Being here in his backyard, and anytime I fight in somebody’s backyard, it’s even better,” Barberena told reporters at the UFC on ESPN 33 media day. “It gives me that much more excitement. Not so much motivation, but it just makes me that much more excited to get in there and perform and put on a show for everyone right in front of his fans.

“I know I’ll get maybe booed a little bit, maybe not. But people know how I fight, they know I’m going to bring it to him and they’re excited for the matchup. I truly believe this is the people’s main event and we’re going to put on a show for these fans.”

Brown is coming off a KO win over Dhiego Lima last June. Prior to that, he was on a two-fight losing streak. Although the gritty veteran might be 41 years old, Barberena is not taking him lightly.

“He is a skilled veteran,” Barberena said. “He’s been in there with some of the best in the world and he’s been able to test himself and go against those guys and make things happen and come (away) with wins still. He’s an old guy and knocked out his last opponent. He’s constantly expanding his game and constantly improving.

“There’s always dangers in everywhere, but I continue to get better. Like I said, I feel the best I’ve ever felt and I continue to improve my game. I think when I get in there, I’m going to be able to take advantage of situations and get the best of him.”