Is Frankie Edgar's Family Right to Worry About His Return to the Octagon?

Frankie Edgar, a UFC Hall of Famer and former lightweight champion, is making a surprising return to combat sports with a bare-knuckle fight, after nearly three years of retirement. He cited a unique opportunity, a lack of injuries, and a desire to compete again as motivating factors. Despite concerns from his family and a challenging end to his UFC career, Edgar is enthusiastic about this new chapter.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Frankie Edgar is returning to combat sports with a bare-knuckle fight after three years of retirement.
• His decision was influenced by a lack of injuries and the excitement of competing in his home state.
• Edgar faced concerns from family, especially after a challenging end to his UFC career.
• The UFC granted him permission to fight despite his existing contract.
• His upcoming fight against Jimmie Rivera will significantly influence Edgar's future in combat sports.

Frankie Edgar's Return to Combat Sports

After stepping away from the competitive arena in 2022, Frankie Edgar has taken a different path. He opened a gym in New Jersey, launched a podcast, and embraced family life. Edgar’s return to fighting, particularly in bare-knuckle boxing, has caught many off guard. However, the allure of competition is compelling, and the timing seems right for the 43-year-old fighter.

Understanding the Motivation Behind the Comeback

Edgar described his return as a “perfect storm.” He feels physically fit, with no lingering injuries, and sees the fight as a lucrative opportunity. “It’s a good payday and just an opportunity,” he noted, indicating that the combination of factors made this decision feel right. He acknowledges the potential risks but insists that the excitement of competition outweighs those concerns.

Family Concerns and Support

Despite his enthusiasm, Edgar faced apprehension from his family. His wife expressed concerns about his decision to return to fighting, considering his previous struggles in the octagon. Edgar admitted, “They were all a little against it honestly,” but he also noted that he managed to gain some support from his wife, even if it was reluctant.

His children have varying levels of understanding about his return, with his daughter being particularly uneasy about the idea of her father stepping back into the ring. Edgar’s commitment to the sport, however, remains strong, and he is determined to pursue this opportunity.

Navigating the Transition from UFC to BKFC

Edgar’s transition to bare-knuckle fighting was not straightforward. He needed to secure permission from the UFC due to his existing contract. This required him to reach out to officials, including UFC’s chief business officer, Hunter Campbell. Edgar reflected positively on this interaction, stating that the UFC had always treated him well and supported his decision to pursue this new path.

“I didn’t fight out my contract. They gave me permission, they gave me the release,” he explained. Edgar appreciates the UFC's role in his career, acknowledging that his success with the organisation laid the groundwork for his current opportunities.

Training and Preparation for the Fight

Once Edgar decided to move forward, he began training for his matchup against fellow UFC veteran Jimmie Rivera, scheduled for October 4. His head coach, Mark Henry, initially had reservations but soon became invigorated by the prospect of Edgar’s comeback. “He tried to talk me out of it too, but he can’t help himself either,” Edgar said, indicating the mutual excitement surrounding his return to training.

With a full training camp underway, Edgar feels revitalised. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’ve been walking around with a little pep in my step.” The process of preparing for the fight has reignited his passion for the sport.

The Risks of Bare-Knuckle Fighting

Every combat sport carries inherent risks, particularly bare-knuckle fighting, which exposes fighters to greater potential for injury. Edgar is fully aware of these dangers but approaches his return with a realistic mindset. He acknowledges the risks while expressing confidence in his abilities and preparation.

“I’m not going into this naïve. I understand the risks. I’m willing to take that chance,” he said. Edgar’s excitement about the upcoming fight reflects his passion for the sport, with the thrill of competition driving him forward.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Edgar?

As Edgar prepares for his fight with Rivera, he remains focused on the present. He is not making long-term plans, stating that the outcome of this fight will significantly influence his future. “I’m keeping an open mind,” he said. The fight will serve as a turning point, determining whether Edgar will continue competing or finally retire for good.

“It’s going to be some tough conversations to have with my family if we keep moving forward,” he acknowledged, indicating that his family’s feelings will play a crucial role in any future decisions he makes regarding his fighting career.

Conclusion: The Thrill of Competition

Frankie Edgar’s unexpected return to fighting highlights the complex emotions and decisions involved in a combat sports career. His journey illustrates the balance between personal passion and family concerns. As he steps into the ring once again, the anticipation is palpable, not only for Edgar but for his supporters and the wider combat sports community. Will this be a triumphant return or a final chapter in his storied career? Only time will tell.

As fans look forward to the upcoming fight, the question remains: how will Edgar’s decision impact his legacy in the sport? #UFC #BareKnuckleFC #FrankieEdgar

FAQs

Why did Frankie Edgar return to fighting?

Frankie Edgar returned to fighting due to a combination of factors, including feeling physically fit, a good payday, and the excitement of competing again in his home state.

What concerns did Edgar’s family have about his comeback?

Edgar’s family, particularly his wife and daughter, expressed concerns regarding his return to combat sports, especially considering his recent struggles in the UFC.

How did Edgar secure permission to fight in BKFC?

Edgar needed to get a release from his UFC contract to compete in BKFC. He reached out to UFC officials, who granted him permission to pursue this opportunity.

What is Frankie Edgar’s mindset going into the fight?

Edgar is approaching the fight with an open mind, aware of the risks but excited about the competition. He believes this fight will determine his future in combat sports.

Who is Frankie Edgar’s opponent in his return fight?

Frankie Edgar is set to face fellow UFC veteran Jimmie Rivera in his bare-knuckle fight.