Yair “El Pantera” Rodriguez made a name for himself after winning the first season of The Ultimate Fighter reality TV show in Latin America; then he went on to headline in the UFC facing Alex Caceres, where he got a split decision. The 145-pound striker has been unbeaten in all of his UFC bouts including a second-round technical knockout against two-division champion B.J. Penn with a fight of the night bonus. The 24-year-old rising star asked to challenge established warrior Frankie "The Answer" Edgar, according to Sean Shelby, the UFC matchmaker said during a recent interview.
It’s a big step up in competition for the Mexican, the toughest test in his MMA career, but that's what he wants. Edgar is more experienced with exceptional boxing and exclusive wrestling skills. Plus his confidence is high after defeating Jeremy Stephens at UFC 205.
Rodriguez brings a lot to the table with tons of fans and a big promotion, so Frankie doesn’t feel too bad about having to fight an up-and-coming fighter, he declared. At the same time, Edgar has to be careful with Rodriguez' unique style of striking, especially head kicks!
UFC 211 is one of the most stacked cards the organization has put together, ESPN reports. It takes place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The main event will be the rematch between heavyweight championship Stipe Miocic and Junior dos Santos.
Watch it on pay-per-view May 13.
Frankie is one of the UFC's most beloved fighters
The courageous 34-year-old has shown during his career, he's one of the hardest working fighters inside the octagon and just signed a contract extension with the UFC. The New Jersey native still has speed, power and continues to grow in the sport.
Edgar has battled in a handful of title fights with the best in the world holding a record of 6-1 in the featherweight division -- his only defeat was against Jose Aldo. Earlier this year, he suffered a torn groin muscle and had to endure surgery. He's looking to get another title shot in the future but for the time being, Frankie is focused on Yair Rodriguez.
Frankie Edgar vs Yair Rodriguez this Saturday LIVE on PPV!!! pic.twitter.com/GjTWVxzhTv
— Dana White (@danawhite) May 9, 2017
The 24-year-old became first fighter to knock down B.J. Penn
Rodriguez has a perfect 6-0 record in the UFC with an exciting highlight real. Yair is originally from Chihuahua, Mexico and now fights out of Chicago. Fans and experts are interested in seeing what Rodriguez is capable of when he gets tested by one of the best opponents in the division.
His style is flashy and wild but it works for him. Rodriguez is regarded as one of the featherweight's future stars. The young fighter could give the veteran trouble this weekend and it's hard to predict who will come out on top.