Frankie Edgar Speaks Out on BKFC 82 Withdrawal, Warns Fellow Fighters
Former UFC champion Frankie Edgar has opened up about his recent withdrawal from BKFC 82, a fight he was set to compete in on October 4, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey. Edgar was scheduled to face fellow veteran fighter Jimmie Rivera, but just days before the event, BKFC President David Feldman announced that Edgar was removed from the fight card due to medical concerns.
Details of Withdrawal from BKFC 82
According to Edgar, he had been training for six to seven weeks in preparation for the bout. However, a week before the fight, he received word from his manager regarding a decision made by BKFC management. Edgar explains, “The owner of BKFC is leaving for Manchester and doesn’t have access to a phone. A doctor advised against my participation based on factors like age and past TKO losses.”
Despite passing rigorous medical evaluations, Edgar is frustrated that his medical records were not communicated to the fight commission. He underwent multiple tests, including an eye exam, physical assessment, and tests related to heart health and neurological function. “Every doctor stated I was in excellent shape,” he continued. “Yet, the commission claimed they hadn’t received my medicals.”
Response from BKFC and Concerns Over Financial Motives
Edgar noted that he participated in various promotional events for BKFC 82. He feels the organization may have used his name to enhance ticket sales, even though they were aware of the potential for his withdrawal. “I contributed by promoting the fight heavily, which makes this situation particularly frustrating,” he remarked.
- Date of Fight: October 4, 2023
- Location: Newark, New Jersey
- Opponent: Jimmie Rivera
- Reason for Withdrawal: Medical concerns articulated by BKFC
Edgar speculated about possible financial motives behind his removal from the fight: “Maybe they didn’t sell enough tickets or lost a sponsor, and thought it would save money by pulling me from the card.” He expressed that he was not seeking legal action against BKFC over his contractual compensation, hinting that he might have made more money by not fighting.
Edgar’s Future in Fighting
Despite the disappointing outcome, Frankie Edgar remains open to fighting again. He emphasized his readiness and clean bill of health. “I am fit and ready if another opportunity arises,” he stated. The narrative suggesting his unfitness for competition is something he finds troubling.
In summary, Frankie Edgar’s planned return to the ring was derailed amid concerns from BKFC. While frustrated, he stands by his readiness to fight and urges fellow combatants to be cautious about their engagements with the promotion. “Fighters, beware,” he cautioned, reflecting on his experience in the lead-up to BKFC 82.
