Dan Henderson‘s amazing and epic battle with Shogun Rua was the type of fight that makes MMA the hottest sport in the world right now.
Two real warriors laid it all on the line and Henderson was justifiably awarded the decision. Let us not confuse an exciting fighter with a truly elite and masterfully skilled one.
Both Jon Jones at light heavyweight and Anderson Silva at middleweight represent elite level fighters that will avoid the manic right hands from Hendo and defeat him.
In Jones’ case, his reach advantage, equal striking proficiency and awesome grappling skill will expose Hendo, who is not a true light heavyweight. He is likely more comfortable there at 39 years of age, but he will not be able to pressure and overpower Jones.
That fight will likely result in a lopsided decision or a late TKO in favor of Jon Jones.
In the case of Silva, this is perhaps Hendo’s best chance. Silva is advanced in age. He is likely to have just battled Chael Sonnen in a intense and emotional rematch. If the Spider is victorious in that bout, as I expect he will be, many will question how much he has left?
I believe Henderson is the type of fighter that is custom made for Silva. Hard charging opponents with one dimensional attack styles, no matter how potent, will not fair well against the Spider.
He has too many ways to beat you. Henderson’s chin is so good that a KO isn’t likely, but a lopsided decision is more feasible.
I applaud Hendo’s great performance, but Bones and the Spider are beyond the reach of his destructive right hand.
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