This afternoon, the UFC confirmed that Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen II has been moved to UFC 148 and a void has been left on the card. Dana White stated at the press conference that featherweight champion Jose Aldo will likely be added to the event.
Tentatively scheduled to fight at UFC 149 against an undetermined opponent, Aldo would be happy to fight one month sooner if it means he can fight in his home country once again. After all, we saw how well the live crowd embraced their champion after his UFC 142 title defense against Chad Mendes.
Frankie Edgar is the right opponent for several reasons.
First of all, the backstory is already written. Edgar is a undersized lightweight who has the skills to win and defend the championship against men who are vastly larger. Fans and Dana White alike have been clamoring for Edgar to drop down and fight Aldo. Even Aldo wants this fight. This matchup is an intriguing fight for fans everywhere.
Secondly, Edgar is the only quality name in the division who fans would be willing to accept as a pay-per-view main eventer. The miserable 235,000 PPV purchases for UFC 142 will show you that MMA fans are not willing to spend their hard-earned dollars on someone they don’t think can unseat Aldo. Hatsu Hioki is a very talented fighter, but a large number of fans would not be willing to part ways with $45 to see him fight for gold.
Lastly, Edgar looks like he may be ready to concede that a drop to featherweight is the right move for him eventually. Now that the stars have aligned for this fantastic opportunity, the former champion will know to strike while the iron is hot.
Not to mention that this bout would free up Ben Henderson for either a rematch with Anthony Pettis or a bout with the Jim Miller vs. Nate Diaz winner.
We want Aldo vs. Edgar. Make it happen, Dana!
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