After Anthony Pettis posted yet another landmark win against Benson Henderson on Saturday at UFC 164 in Milwaukee, UFC president Dana White broke some unfortunate news.
The UFC tweeted:
Pettis—who submitted Henderson via an armbar with 29 seconds left in the first round on Saturday—said it was his left knee that was bothering him at the post-fight press conference, via UFC.com.
What an unfortunate turn of events. Just after winning the UFC lightweight title belt, the 26-year-old has apparently suffered an injury that could delay his ascent into stardom.
Henderson had won seven straight fights since his loss to Pettis in December 2010, but “Showtime” once again was the 29-year-old’s Achilles’ heel.
After defeating Henderson in the WEC, Pettis had to fight back from a loss to Clay Guida, disposing of Jeremy Stephens, Joe Lauzon and Donald Cerrone before getting his big chance against Henderson. His action-packed style, evident when he unloaded with a historic kick against Henderson in 2010, has garnered him many fans across the globe, and he’s just the kind of money-maker that the UFC loves.
But his scintillating style also has its drawbacks. His aggressive moves can sometimes open him up to injury. We can only hope that his injury isn’t too serious.
Pettis‘ victory on Saturday was well-deserved, and he continues to soar up the rankings in the UFC. The last thing he needs is an injury holding him back just as he gets into a championship groove.
While he proved that he could defeat Henderson before Saturday’s fight, he nonetheless surprised many by not only submitting the former champ but making him tap so quickly. Henderson is known for his submission defense, and few saw Pettis beating “Smooth” via an armbar.
Pettis has shown what he can do and displayed how much talent he has. Now he just has to stay healthy so he can make the most of his abilities.
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