One of MMA’s most respected names is set to step back into the spotlight this October after three years away from competition.
In recent years, former UFC fighters have had more options than ever to stay active in the fight game.
For some major MMA figures, boxing bouts have become a viable path. A recent example is Tony Ferguson, who notably ended a six-year losing streak at Misfits Boxing 22.
Bare Knuckle FC is another alternative. It is not for everyone, but the promotion has steadily drawn some high-profile names who are looking for a new challenge.
Now, a 43-year-old UFC Hall of Famer is set to make his BKFC debut later this year in his home state.
Frankie Edgar admits his family was worried about his surprise BKFC move
Set for October 4, BKFC 82 is poised to be one of the promotion’s most significant events in 2025.
While the headline bout between Mike Perry and Jeremy Stephens is expected to draw plenty of interest, fans in New Jersey will likely be most excited to see one local name back in action.
Frankie Edgar concluded his UFC career in 2022, following three consecutive knockout defeats to Cory Sandhagen, Marlon Vera, and Chris Gutierrez.
With 36 professional fights to his credit, the former lightweight champion is scheduled to fight Jimmie Rivera. But he has made it clear that not everyone around him was supportive of the decision.
“My family, my close family, definitely was against it, for sure,” Edgar told MMA Junkie. “My wife, my kids, my parents. But I talked them into it I guess you could say. At least enough for them to give me the okay. I don’t know if I got their blessing but I got the okay.”
He also explained why they felt uneasy about him returning to fighting.
“They think I don’t need it. I don’t need to do this because it’s not like I’m searching for pennies or anything like that under the couch. It’s not that I need it.
“They get who I am though at least my wife. My kids had no chance they got born to me they didn’t get a pick. My wife kinda knew what she got into when she signed up for this a while back.”
Frankie Edgar hints BKFC 82 might not be a one-off return
It is nothing new for fighters to come out of retirement, even if it always comes with some raised eyebrows.
If this were simply a farewell fight in front of his home crowd, it might ease the concerns of those close to him.
But at the BKFC 82 press conference, Edgar did not exactly shut down the possibility of more appearances.
“I said I’d never fight again, here I am. Who’s gonna take me for my word, really? We’ll see how this one goes,” he said.
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