After ten years at the elite level, Frankie Edgar is rarely inexperienced in any area of the game.
That trend continues at UFC 240, with Edgar entering a sizable underdog as he looks to dethrone Featherweight Champion Max Holloway. Speaking to MMA Junkie, Edgar reiterated his history in that role though, even citing a fight that frankly, changed his life. “A little over nine years ago, I fought a guy I wasn’t supposed to be in there with, who was supposed to wipe the mat with me, and I proved some people wrong. So this is definitely a familiar position for me.”
Edgar is of course referencing his famous triumph over BJ Penn, shocking the MMA world and becoming UFC Lightweight Champion. 'The Answer' has since become a legend, defending his title on multiple occasions and achieving immense longevity as one of the sport's absolute best. His comparison is apt though, with very few giving Edgar a chance when first matched with Penn. Ironically, Edgar would eventually beat Penn twice more, holding a 3-0 record over the UFC Hall of Famer.
With that being said, Edgar understands the task in front of him and is preparing accordingly. “Max keeps getting better and better every fight, but some guys just do stuff that they always do, and those are the things we’ve been working on since the very first camp we started getting ready for him,” Edgar said.
The former Lightweight Champion remains coached by revered tactician Mark Henry. When asked about his fighter by MMA Junkie, Henry had some simple reasons for his success. “God, DNA and hard work. I think for a lot of fighters, they’re good, but they don’t love the fight life. Well, Frankie loves the life.”
UFC 240 takes place on July 27th at the Rogers Place. The event airs on ESPN+ PPV and also looks likely to feature Cris Cyborg's return fight against Felicia Spencer.
Full MMA Junkie's full piece with Edgar as well as Henry, click here.
