What's Happening?
UFC Hall of Famer Frankie Edgar is set to come out of retirement to participate in a bare-knuckle boxing match. Edgar, aged 43, will face fellow UFC veteran Jimmie Rivera at a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships (BKFC) event scheduled for October 4 in New Jersey. The announcement was made by Conor McGregor, a partial owner of BKFC, on social media, and confirmed by Edgar's manager, Ali Abdelaziz. Edgar expressed excitement about competing again, especially in his home state. Edgar retired from mixed martial arts in 2022 with a record of 24-11-1 and is celebrated for his resilience and willingness to fight larger opponents. He won the UFC lightweight title in 2010 and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2024. The BKFC 82 event will also feature other UFC veterans, including Mike Perry and Jeremy Stephens.
Why It's Important?
Frankie Edgar's return to combat sports is significant as it highlights the growing appeal of bare-knuckle boxing, which is attracting retired MMA fighters. Edgar's participation could draw more attention to BKFC, potentially increasing its popularity and viewership. This move also underscores the trend of athletes extending their careers in alternative fighting sports, which may influence the dynamics of combat sports industries. Edgar's return is likely to excite fans who have followed his career, and his involvement could boost ticket sales and media coverage for the BKFC event.
What's Next?
Edgar's debut in bare-knuckle boxing is anticipated to be a major draw for the BKFC event in New Jersey. The fight against Jimmie Rivera will be closely watched by fans and analysts, potentially setting the stage for more high-profile matches in the future. The success of this event could encourage other retired fighters to consider similar transitions, impacting the roster and competition level within BKFC. Stakeholders in combat sports will be observing the event's reception and its implications for the sport's growth.
