Former UFC and WEC lightweight champion Benson Henderson is pulling the trigger on a full-time move to 170 pounds. According to MMAFighting.com’s Ariel Helwani, Smooth is likely to face former welterweight contender Thiago Alves in the main event of the UFC’s upcoming debut in South Korea.
Benson Henderson vs. Thiago Alves targeted for main event of UFC’s South Korean debut — http://t.co/886THZxVpc pic.twitter.com/ZfgJRqaTuc
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) August 20, 2015
Henderson has been teasing a weight-class jump for almost a year now. While many debated whether his style—which blends superior strength and athleticism with generally excellent technique in all facets of the game—translates well to fights in which he is at a size disadvantage, he scored a big win over hot welterweight prospect Brandon Thatch in February. That success, coupled with the glass ceiling hanging over his head at 155 pounds due to losses to Rafael dos Anjos, Donald Cerrone and Anthony Pettis, has him ready to plant roots in a new weight class.
He faces a big test in Alves, however. The Brazilian has long history of injuries but, after a two-year layoff, made a successful return to the UFC with a decision win over Seth Baczynski. While his most recent bout was a loss to Carlos Condit, his crushing kicks and massive size makes him a tough out for any fighter.
The UFC is currently set to land in Seoul, South Korea, on November 28. No other fights have been announced for the card, but expect it to be packed with local talent like Dong Hyun Kim, Yui Chul Nam and Tae Hyun Bang.
Who do you think ends up taking this one, fight fans? Will Henderson still look good against the veteran striker? Or will Alves get back on track?
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com