Maynard Prepared to Defeat Edgar Again, Claim UFC Title

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Two years ago, Gray Maynard beat Frankie Edgar. Saturday, he’ll try to do it again.

This time, however, the biggest prize in the 155-pound division will be at stake, as Maynard challenges Edgar for the lightweight title in the main event of UFC 125 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

If Maynard is feeling any pressure heading into the biggest fight of his career, he certainly isn’t letting on. When asked on Tuesday’s media conference call about the differences in training for a title fight as opposed to his typical three-round affairs, “The Bully” kept his reply short and sweet.

“You just add on two [more rounds]. It’s easy. I’m going to be prepared.”

According to the former Michigan State Spartan, his extended training camp has provided him with the extra practice needed to wrest away Edgar's strap.

“I usually have an eight-week camp, and I think this camp turned out to be 12 weeks, so I got in a few extra rounds,” said Maynard. “You have to evolve in all areas, or you’ll get beat.”

Maynard holds the distinction of being the only man to best the champion as a professional, having earned a unanimous decision over Edgar at UFC Fight Night 13. Over the last four years, the Xtreme Couture product has remained unbeaten, going 8-0-1 inside the Octagon. When asked if he felt his title shot was overdue considering his accomplishments, Maynard replied calmly.

“Not at all. This is the perfect time,” he said. “My time is now. I’m looking to take the belt, for sure.”

Though Maynard expects the outcome of the rematch to mirror his first encounter with Edgar, the 31-year-old claims he is ready for a new and improved opponent.

“He’s a tough kid. He’s quick and he moves a lot. It’s hard for me to tell you that [the fight] is going to happen [a certain way],” said Maynard. “The first fight was two-and-a-half years ago. Anytime you go against the top fighter in the world, you have to evolve and change. So I’m prepared for a new fight, and I’m up for it.”