UFC 144: Frankie Edgar vs. Benson Henderson Breakdown

By Brian Lopez-Benchimol

UFC 144 is just around the corner, as the organization will make it’s foray into Japan in more than a decade.

The Saitama Super Arena will house the prestigious event this weekend, which is headlined by a lightweight encounter between champion Frankie Edgar and Benson Henderson.

In his last outing, Edgar avenged a previous career defeat when he weathered an early storm from the bruising Gray Maynard, earning “Knockout of the Night” for his come-from-behind performance at UFC 136. “The Answer” remains undefeated since 2008, though he has a stern test in WEC import Benson Henderson.

The Arizona fighter held the WEC lightweight title, after defeating then champion Jamie Varner and becoming it’s undisputed ruler. A subsequent submission win over Donald Cerrone followed though Henderson held onto the belt for only a short while, before Anthony Pettis upset the champ in a memorable performance.

Since then, Henderson has been on a tear since transitioning to the UFC. Dominant decision wins over Mark Bocek and perennial contender Jim Miller followed, setting up a highly anticipated bout with Clay Guida. In a “Fight of the Night” performance, Henderson edged Guida both on the feet and on the ground, taking home the decision win.

His superior size, strength and unwavering cardio have catapulted Henderson into the position to contend for Edgar’s title, and he will not let the opportunity slip from his grasp. Expect Henderson to match Edgar everywhere the fight goes, though his clinch and strength will allow him to muscle Edgar to the ground just enough where he will take a very-close decision win from the wily champion, making him the new ruler of 155-pounds.