F. Edgar (photo) suggests that B. Penn retire. Photo: Reproduction / Instagram @frankieedgar.
For those most nostalgic in the world of MMA, certainly B.J. Penn He is a name to be respected in the world of fighting. The former lightweight champion, Frankie Edgar, don't think any different. However, the American expressed sadness with Penn's current performances in his recent fights. In a recent interview with 'MMA Junkie', the athlete stated that the legendary fighter should rethink about continuing to act professionally. BJ has just one win in his last 11 fights.
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“Would I like him to retire? Probably. It's probably best for his body, but I don't know what's going on in his head. I'm sure we all have a little responsibility for this, but ultimately it's just up to him. No one is putting a gun to his head and making him fight,” Frankie stated.
Frankie and BJ have a long history in Ultimate. More than 10 years ago, the two faced each other for the organization in a dispute for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3kg). At the time, Penn held the belt, and was considered one of the best MMA athletes in the world; in addition to being highly valued within the company. Edgar emerged victorious in the duel and triumphed over the Hawaiian after an immediate rematch scheduled for four months later.
“I saw BJ coming up and I saw his best moments. It's hard to see him losing fight after fight. But he has to make the decision. Not me. He knows what the game is. He knows what he wants to achieve. So, I can’t change the mind of someone who just wants to do what they want”, concluded Edgar.
Despite being a long way from being the fighter that once caught the public's eye, BJ is still highly respected in MMA circles. In 2015, the Hawaiian was officially included in the company's 'Hall of Fame', in the 'Modern Era' wing. The honor was awarded to the athlete for his achievements in the sport after years of service. One of Penn's most important achievements was becoming the second athlete to win two titles in two different categories for the company: lightweight and welterweight.
BJ announced his first retirement in 2011. Just over a year later, he returned to the octagons. In 2014, he abandoned the sport again. This time, the decision lasted almost three years. Penn returned to activities in 2017. Since his first return, in 2012, the athlete has not won a single fight.
At 40 years old, he has 31 fights, 16 wins and 13 losses, as well as two draws. His last commitment took place on the 11th, when he was defeated by, also a veteran, Clay guida, in a unanimous decision of the judges, in the UFC 237, in Rio de Janeiro.
Your former tormentor, Frankie Edgar, at 37 years old, is living a completely different moment. With 30 fights, 23 triumphs, six setbacks and one draw, the North American is still among the top 5 in the featherweight division (up to 65,7kg), the North American is the next challenger for the category title. The fighter faces the current champion, Max Holloway on July 27th at UFC 240.
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