After learning he would be forced off UFC 130, UFC lightweight-champion Frankie Edgar has been recovering properly in order to prepare for a third encounter against challenger Gray Maynard later this year.
While already undergoing treatment for his back, Edgar spoke to Ariel Helwani on “The MMA Hour” and discussed his injury, which could lead to surgery in the near future to further correct the issue.
“I think eventually I’m going to need surgery,” Edgar said. “Hopefully these shots will slow down the process and give me a couple more years without having to do the surgery.”
On the show, Edgar said he has received four epidural injections to help address the issue, and he added it will take up to four days to determine whether the solution is successful or not. Should the shots not determine a successful outcome, Edgar said he will receive another set of shots in his nerves.
Edgar said he had to get back surgery 11 years ago and occasionally has pain that prevents him from training for a day or two.
However, his recent spell has been more severe and has put him in so much pain that it was apparent he could no longer train for his title bout against Maynard—a decision that has disappoint Edgar and his training camp.
“Not only do I not want to let down my bosses, Dana [White], Lorenzo [Fertitta] and those guys, I don’t want to let down my teammates,” he said.
For now, Edgar said he will rest and await his results, taking about 10 days off before he resumes training. While he is expected to return to the Octagon later this year, his main priority is to recuperate.
“Just the rest alone made me feel a little better,” he said. “I think these shots will help me train at the capacity I need to train.”
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