Frankie Edgar vs Yair Rodriguez

Frankie Edgar vs Yair Rodriguez

It just gets better as we move up a slot on the card as striking and streaking phenom Yair Rodriguez goes up against multi-time title challenger and former Lightweight title holder Frankie Edgar in what is a huge matchup with regards to the fortunes of the UFC's Featherweight division. The general curiosity surrounding this fight is whether it will be a coming out party for 'El Pantera' , announcing his arrival within the 145-lbs division.

However, it's a stiff test against the gritty veteran in Edgar, who hasn't lost in a non-title fight in the UFC in over 9 years. Edgar also is nowhere close to being done and is coming off a huge win over a perennially dangerous contender in Jeremy Stephens at UFC 205, and has a strong advantage in terms of his wrestling ability over someone like Rodriguez who is a skilled but flashy striker.

Yair however is extremely skilled, quick and a finisher while Edgar has shown a tendency to start a bit slow in his fights. It'll be a big mistake if he chooses to do that against someone as dangerous as Rodriguez. He needs to earn the young Mexican's respect, establishing that there can't be risks taken without repercussions by taking Yair down when he tries his flashy stuff. 

It'll be hard to imagine that if Yair wins, he isn't a favorite to challenge for the title next. But, I think that discussion won't be warranted in the near future after this Saturday.

Prediction: Frankie Edgar wins via decision.