UFC Legend Frankie Edgar Withdraws from BKFC Debut: What’s Next?
Announcements have surfaced confirming the withdrawal of UFC legend Frankie Edgar from his impending Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) debut match against Jimmie Rivera. Originally, the fight was set to take place at BKFC 82 in Newark, New Jersey this coming Saturday. However, recent reports from NJ.com have informed that the 43-year-old Edgar won’t partake in the event for reasons yet to be disclosed.
The bout was going to be Edgar’s initial endeavor into combat sports following his retirement from Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) towards the end of 2022. The revelation regarding Edgar’s absence from the card was received only a few hours after BKFC’s founder, Dave Feldman, discussed the forthcoming fight.
Feldman pointed out that additional health assessment was mandated for Edgar, who is a member of the UFC Hall of Fame. He compared the situation to a ‘coin toss’, demonstrating the uncertainty surrounding Edgar’s participation. He expounded, ‘In comparison to regular competitors, those in the high-risk category are subjected to more rigorous medical checks. Yet, he sailed through each medical examination,’ Feldman explained.
The final call regarding Edgar’s participation was to be ascertained in the course of the day. Feldman articulated that a substitute for Edgar was prepared in case he was unable to compete.
Getting ready to step into the ring against Rivera is Timmy Mason, a well-seasoned BKFC competitor with four fights under his belt. Feldman expressly indicated his readiness to maneuver a future fight with Edgar despite the current circumstances.
In the year 2010, Edgar’s exceptional performance fetched him the UFC lightweight title. The subsequent year witnessed the legendary fighter face off against his adversary, Gray Maynard, in two unforgettable and electrifying battles that went down in history.
Edgar was constantly lauded for his indomitable spirit and uncanny ability to excel despite being smaller in stature at 155 pounds. Unfortunately, after his unsuccessful attempt to recapture the title in 2012, Edgar made the decision to abandon the lightweight division.
Undeterred, he transitioned to fight in the UFC’s featherweight and bantamweight categories for the remainder of his professional career, exhibiting his versatility and unwavering commitment to the sport.
But alas, the toll of years of physical strain began to reflect on Edgar’s previously resilient chin, becoming evident through the knockouts he conceded in five of his last six defeats.
Despite this, Edgar’s legacy is in no way tainted, as his courage, relentless drive, and contributions to the sport remain inspirational for present and future fighters alike.
Edgar’s withdrawal from the BKFC debut has stirred up reflection on his illustrious career. Until reasons for his pull-out are shared, fans can only speculate. However, the prospect of a future BKFC fight featuring Edgar provides a silver lining and keeps the fans hopeful.
Meanwhile, all eyes are now on Timmy Mason, who replaces Edgar in the fight against Jimmie Rivera. This unexpected turn of events has only added a twist to the BKFC 82 event, making it one of the most-awaited matches of the season.
It remains to see what this change of events means for the future career moves of Edgar. Nevertheless, his bouts will always remain a highlight reel of memorable moments in the history of the sport.