How do these two stack up?
Stout: 27 years old | 5'9" | 70" reach
Edwards: 34 years old | 5'10" | 71.5" reach
What have these two done recently?
Stout: W - Paul Taylor (SD) | L - Jeremy Stephens (SD) | W - Joe Lauzon (UD)
Edwards: W - Cody McKenzie (SUB) | W - John Gunderson (UD) | W - Luis Palomino (UD)
How did these two get here?
Sam "Hands of Stone" Stout is a UFC veteran of over 5 years. The Canadian fighter had an impressive run in the TKO organization, but has found mixed success in the UFC, going 5-5. He has been in a number of classic stand-up battles, including a pair of superb fights with Spencer Fisher, and has earned Fight of the Night honors in half of his UFC bouts. Stout is a stand-up specialist who for years trained under Shawn Thompkins.
Yves Edwards is one of the sport's true remaining journeymen fighters. A 14 year pro with over 50 fights, Edwards has fought all over the globe, including impressive runs in Pride and EliteXC among others. The self-proclaimed Thugjitsu Master made his UFC debut all the way back at UFC 33 and was widely regarded as the uncrowned UFC Lightweight champion at the time that division was dissolved. He has come and gone in the UFC over the past years, and this will be his 3rd straight fight for the organization since making his return last fall. After a few bumpy years, Edwards has seemed to get back on track, and is currently on a 6-1 run.
Why should you care?
These are two tremendously exciting fighters. Five Fight of the Night bonuses for Stout, one for Edwards, plus a spectacular Edwards highlight reel makes this a leading candidate for Stout to claim Fight of the Night honors once again. Old school fans will be thrilled to see Edwards, while newer fans will hopefully get to see what makes him special.
