Who’s next in line for a shot at Benson Henderson? That’s the million dollar question. There were strong title implications when the match up between Donald Cerrone and Anthony Pettis was announced, but then news about Gilbert Melendez receiving an immediate title shot in his UFC debut was a roar. As if the situation wasn’t confusing enough, yet again, more breaking news is unleashed upon the MMA world with the possible addition of Eddie Alvarez in the UFC, who is also a top choice for an immediate title shot. Every MMA fan knows how easily a booked fight can fall apart, so looks like the next title fight is still up for grabs.
As of this moment, it’s most likely that Alvarez will most likely get the first crack at the UFC champ in March. The former Bellator lightweight champion is coming off two first round knockouts over two elite fighters, Shinya Aoki and Patricky Freire. I’m sure Alvarez would like to rematch the man who took his title, Michael Chandler, but a UFC contract is enough to temp any fighter. Alvarez is looking at an immediate title shot and a giant pay day if he finalizes a deal with the UFC.
Donald Cerrone and Anthony Pettis will face each other on January 26th, which will line up perfect for the winner to receive a title shot in a timely fashion, assuming Benson Henderson defends his title against either Eddie Alvarez or Gilbert Melendez in early 2013. Thanks to the UFC 125 title fight between Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard ending in a draw, a rematch was in order and Pettis missed out on a title unification bout. Instead of waiting for the next shot at the title, Pettis faced Clay Guida and lost a unanimous decision. Since then, he has been eager to get back into title contention. Cerrone was knocking on the door for a title shot, but his title run was interrupted by Nate Diaz who ended up getting the title fight, but losing a decision. Both fighters are coming off of stellar knockouts, and whoever emerges victorious will absolutely deserve a title shot.
Before Alvarez came into the title picture, it was Gilbert Melendez who was apparently slated for an early 2013 title shot, but if Alvarez doesn’t come through, Melendez could easily step in as a replacement. Besides unifying the titles, Melendez has other reasons for wanting to fight Benson Henderson, specifically to avenge the loss of his training partner, Nate Diaz. Melendez has even stated that Benson Henderson can’t consider himself the number one lightweight until Henderson can defeat him. There could even be a chance that the UFC squares off Melendez and Alvarez to determine a number one contender. Both fighters have the credentials and accomplishments to deserve a title fight, but there shouldn’t be any complaints from the fans regardless of who is ultimately chosen.
– Ryan “Fight Freek” Poli