Edgar prepares to challenge BJ Penn for the Lightweight champion title at UFC® 112, Live on Yas Island Abu Dhabi
Since joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) in February 2007 and claiming a ‘Fight of the Night’ victory over Tyson Griffin, Frankie Edgar has enjoyed a whirlwind of success. With six victories in UFC® - including the defeat of former champion Sean Sherk – and three ‘Fight of the Night’ honours, Edgar has earned his shot at prying the Lightweight belt out of BJ Penn’s hands at UFC® 112 Abu Dhabi on April 10th.
“When I first started fighting, all I wanted was that lightweight belt. It’s a dream match for me, I couldn’t paint a better picture,” Edgar said.
“I’m trying to create my own legend here in myself so having the chance to fight Penn, one of the greatest pound for pound fighters in the UFC today, and take the Lightweight title, is a perfect opportunity for me.”
Edgar is currently training for his title shot with Brazilian Jiu-jitsu mentors Ricardo Almeida and Renzo Gracie. Despite being marked one of the most improved fighters in the UFC®, Edgar knows he will have his hands full in Abu Dhabi.
“In my eyes, Penn is one of the most skilled and well-rounded fighters in the UFC and his flexibility and balance make him a hard nut to crack. I just have to be well-versed in everything.”
“I’ll definitely be a challenge for Penn, I’m a little bit different with the way I approach my stand-up and wrestling and I believe I have the skills to take the Lightweight title where others have failed.”
Arguably the most improved mixed martial artist in the sport today, Frankie ‘The Answer’ Edgar has won six bouts in the UFC® and emerged as one of the best lightweights in the world. Born in Toms River, New Jersey, the 28-year-old Edgar combines a strong wrestling background with vastly improved boxing ability and a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Accomplished in all areas of the sport, Edgar has also claimed three ‘Fight of the Night’ bonuses during his time in the UFC®.
UFC® 112 Abu Dhabi will be the first ever UFC® outdoor fight, taking place on April 10th 2010 at a custom-built stadium outside Ferrari World, Yas Island. Tickets are available from www.boxofficeme.com and the UFC® stand at Marina Mall. With upper grandstand seats already sold out, organisers are encouraging fans to buy now to avoid missing your chance to catch one of the Middle East’s biggest ever sporting events.
With two Championship titles on the line, UFC 112 boasts one of the best fight cards outside of North America. The UFC® Welterweight and Lightweight Championship belts are currently on display at the UFC® stand at Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi.
More information can be found at www.UFC.com.
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