Ben Henderson Holds Off Frankie Edgar One More Time

Benson Henderson defeated Frankie Edgar via controversial split decision.

The first fight, where Henderson won the title, was a subject of much debate. Many viewers saw the fight for Frankie Edgar except for one up-kick that Henderson landed which seemed to leave a lasting impression in the judges minds. The first fight will be considered the closer of the two because the rematch seemed strongly in Edgar’s favor.

Henderson won the title and Edgar immediately called for a rematch. After fighting BJ Penn twice and Gray Maynard twice, Frankie lost the title controversially, and his words to the UFC President were “You tell me what’s right.”

In the rematch, Henderson landed heavy leg kicks in creative fashion to Edgar’s left calf. It left a lasting impression on the muscle as it rag-dolled Edgar a few times. The first round was a clear round for the champion.

In round 2, Edgar backed Henderson against the fence and landed a knockdown. He followed it up with a submission attempt that was thwarted by Henderson. The champ got a takedown stuffed at the end of the round and ate an uppercut for his trouble. Round 2 was a clear round for Frankie Edgar, the challenger.

Round 3 was the closest of the fight. The round was basically decided by a handful of leg kicks and a few right hands. Nothing of serious significance was landed. This writer saw the champion take a slight edge with successful jabs. The commentators saw it in favor of Frankie Edgar.

Round 4 saw Frankie Edgar snatch a takedown. Henderson threw a head kick from his back that was impressive but insignificant in terms of damage. Edgar followed Henderson to the ground and attempted another choke. This one was closer to finishing but Henderson proved that he is tough to submit. Edgar caught kicks and landed a few jabs, while also eating a few, in the later half of the round. Edgar most likely won this round in most viewer’s minds.

The final round of the fight had Edgar quickly catch a kick and put Henderson on his back but with no follow up. Edgar ducked quite a few punches and countered effectively. Edgar landed a strong punch as they broke in a clinch. A strong left hook from Henderson made Edgar adjust his mouth guard back into place. A few stiff jabs from Edgar and a clean kick in the face was landed by Henderson and the fight was over.

The judges saw the fight 49-46 Edgar, 48-47 Henderson and 48-47 for Benson Henderson in order to retain his title.

After the fight, Henderson was confident that he was the winner. Frankie Edgar seemed disappointed and suggested maybe moving weight classes. There isn’t much for Frankie to do at lightweight. Many believe that he already beat the champion twice.

Nate Diaz has already been promised the next title shot. Frankie Edgar may decide to wait and see the outcome of that fight, or he may try his luck against the 145 lb. Champion Jose Aldo.