Edgar Silences the Critics

UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar proved it was no fluke he had the belt around his waist coming into the Octagon Saturday night. He erased all doubts in regards to his somewhat controversial decision win over BJ Penn to win the title last April in Abu Dhabi as he soundly outpointed the former champ with a unanimous decision.

“I was able to complete some takedowns and stay on top of him for longer periods of time”, Edgar said following the bout, “I felt more comfortable with my striking as well.”

Edgar’s wrestling was the key early on. He took Penn down at will. Later on, he got the better on Penn boxing too. Official scores were 50-45 for Edgar from all three judges meaning he won all 5 rounds of the title fight. 8countnews.com also scored the fight for Edgar 50-45.

Earlier in the evening, Gray Maynard earned himself a lightweight title shot with a unanimous decision over Kenny Florian. Maynard will get a title shot in his next fight UFC President Dana White confirmed at the postfight press conference.

Official Attendance at the TD Garden was 15,575.

Other Notes:

Nate Diaz’s submission victory over Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis earned fight of the night honors. Both fighters pocket an extra $60,000 for that accomplishment.

Joe Lauzon’s armbar submission of jiu-jitsu black belt earned him submission of the night. He also earned an extra $60,000 for his efforts.

No knockouts were scored during the entire card.