Frankie Edgar Alleges Medical Neuttonery by BKFC, Misses Home Staats Fight
In a shocking turn of events, former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar was pulled from his bare-knuckle boxing debut at BKFC 82 due to alleged medical issues. Speaking openly about the situation, Edgar shares his side of the story, raising questions about the promotion’s handling of his bout with Jimmie Rivera.
Edgar’s Disappointment
“It’s not what I wanted. I was all in, ready to fight in my hometown,” revealed Frankie Edgar, expressing his frustration with the cancelled bout. Edgar was set to face fellow octagon veteran Jimmie Rivera on October 4, but the promotion announced his removal from the card just days before fight night.
What Happened?
Edgar’s manager received an email from BKFC stating that the owner of the promotion was leaving for Manchester without a phone and would call later. However, the owner’s doctor had advised against Edgar fighting due to his age, consecutive knockouts, layoff, and record. Edgar refutes these claims, stating he had passed every medical exam and was fit to fight.
Edgar’s Medical Clearance
Edgar insists he underwent a series of medical tests, including a physical, blood tests, eye exams, and multiple heart tests. A neurologist also cleared him after an MRI and MRA. Despite sending these results to BKFC, the promotion claimed they didn’t receive them. Edgar later connected with a commission doctor who confirmed his medicals were in order and praised his overall health.
He even said, ‘I don’t know if you’re planning on doing anything, but you can tell your wife and family you’ve got a clean bill of health if you chose to fight more.’
– Frankie Edgar, on commission doctor’s assessment
BKFC’s Actions Under Scrutiny
Edgar questions BKFC’s motives, alleging they may have used his name for ticket sales knowing full well he might not fight. He expresses annoyance at not being allowed to compete in New Jersey, despite passing all medical tests.
“Now, I don’t know what BKFC is going to do, but this ain’t a good look,” Edgar commented. “They dogged me in my home state. They came to me, I did everything they wanted, and now…” Edgar trails off, clearly frustrated with the situation.
Edgar’s Warning to Fighters
Given his experience, Edgar advises fellow fighters to be cautious when dealing with BKFC. “Fighters out there, beware,” he warns. Despite the controversy, Edgar doesn’t plan to sue BKFC for his entire purse, believing he might have been paid more not to fight than many other BKFC fighters.
Edgar’s Future in Fighting
Edgar clarifies that he had no intention of fighting before BKFC approached him. However, once he agreed, he was fully committed. He insists that he’s ready to fight again if another lucrative opportunity arises. Edgar is concerned that the narrative now suggests he was medically unfit to fight, but he remains confident in his ability and readiness.
Honestly, I don’t really don’t give a f*ck because the people that I know that know me know I was ready to go.
– Frankie Edgar, on his readiness to fight
Frankie Edgar’s cancellation from BKFC 82 leaves more questions than answers, with the former UFC champion venting his frustration at the promotion’s actions. Only time will tell how this situation unfolds.