Since entering the Octagon, UFC lightweight contender Frankie “The Answer” Edgar has gone 11–1, with impressive wins over Sean Sherk, Tyson Griffin, and Matt Veach. He now faces the biggest fight of his career against UFC legend and Lightweight Champion BJ Penn. Before heading off to Abu Dhabi, Edgar gave FIGHT! magazine “The Answer” to seven tough questions.
FM: What was the first thing that went through your mind when you heard Dana White say on FOX Fight Game that you were officially the next lightweight contender to BJ Penn’s crown?
THE ANSWER: I was super-excited to hear I would be fighting for the title. It is one step closer to realizing my dream of becoming a world champion.
FM: How has working with new management changed the way you train? Have you worked with Phil Nurse, Greg Jackson, or the Witch Doctor [Steve Friend]?
THE ANSWER: Ever since making the great decision to work with Shari Spencer, I’ve had the opportunity to work with both the Witch Doctor and Phil Nurse. The Witch Doctor is such a great guy, and the knowledge he possesses is tremendously useful.He has helped me greatly. Phil is just an amazing person as well. I believe he is definitely going to help me become much more dangerous and well-rounded as a fighter.
FM: Your boxing has been talked about a lot since the Sherk fight, but your base is wrestling. How has boxing coach Mark Henry helped your game?
THE ANSWER: It has definitely been a process in getting to where I am today with my boxing. Mark is an amazing coach with tons of passion to see his students get better. He is constantly on me to improve and become even better.
FM: You’re expecting your second child with your wife Renee, and she may not be able to make it to Abu Dhabifor your fight. Will this affect you in any way?
THE ANSWER: As of right now, I think she is going to try to make it out there. But if for some reason she will not be able to make it, I don’t think it will affect me. I know she will be at home supporting me. I might still be able to hear her cheering from home anyway. LOL!
FM: New Jersey is home to many great fighters—Renzo Gracie, Ricardo Liborio, Kurt Pellegrino, Lyman Good, the Miller brothers, you, and Massachusetts’s own Kenny Florian frequents the Garden State for training. Why do you think so many MMA fighters do well here?
THE ANSWER: I believe it has to do with a couple things. First, I think the fact that it is so populated helps, and if you want to compete you’re going to have plenty of people to test you. Second, New Jersey is one of the best states in the country when it comes to wrestling. Third, I think we all benefit from the great BJJ schools like Renzo’s and Ricardo’s that are in the area. You can find a Renzo or Ricardo affiliate everywhere in NJ. Lastly, we have a great athletic commission here in NJ. There are many opportunities for fighters to compete. Add all of that to the fact that Jersey is very blue collar with tons of swagger and you’ve got a winning combination.
FM: This has been quite a ride for a kid from the Jersey Shore. Are you living the dream?
THE ANSWER: I truly am living the dream. I love what I do. I don’t work for a living. I make a living training and competing. I couldn’t ask for a better job.
FM: Frankie Edgar vs. MTV’s Jersey Shore’s “The Situation.” Who wins and what round?
THE ANSWER: Come on! That would be a“Situation” he wouldn’t want anything to do with!
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