We are just one day away from UFC 164, which features some top names like Anthony Pettis, Benson Henderson, Josh Barnett and Frank Mir.
What are some of the most intriguing storylines of this showcase? Who will emerge victorious in Milwaukee, Wis.?
From the young to the old, here’s a look at some fighters to watch in an event that promises to be explosive and thrilling.
Will Benson Henderson Avenge His Prior Loss to Anthony Pettis?
The first time Benson Henderson faced Anthony Pettis in December 2010, the 29-year-old lost via unanimous decision in Glendale, Ariz.
Since then, Henderson has won his last seven fights.
Of course, Pettis has gone 3-1 in UFC since then, including capturing his last two fights by either KO (Joe Lauzon) or TKO (Donald Cerrone).
This should be an exciting close fight that could ultimately be decided by the judges after five rounds. Then again, there is also room for a KO, especially if Pettis loads up and connects with one of his well-known kicks.
If this fight doesn’t excite, it would be a surprise.
Josh Barnett’s Last Shot at a UFC Title?
Josh Barnett (32-6 MMA, 4-1 UFC) won the UFC heavyweight belt in 2002, but a positive test for steroids essentially led to his move overseas.
Well, the 35-year-old is back after his TKO of Randy Couture more than a decade ago.
Barnett certainly has the ability to defeat some of the top heavyweights in the world, but his loss to Daniel Cormier last year under the Strikeforce banner may have been a sign of things to come.
Of course, his opponent this time, Frank Mir, is getting up there in age and just lost his last two fights to Junior Dos Santos and Cormier.
This may be Josh Barnett’s last gasp at a major title, while Mir will likely do everything in his power to stay relevant in the unforgiving world of the UFC. Expect to see two of the world’s best grapplers put on a show.
When Will Frank Mir Retire?
If Mir defeats Barnett, it could keep the 34-year-old around for a little longer.
If he loses to Barnett, however, it could be the last MMA fight of his career.
Mir (16-7 MMA, 14-7 UFC) has given fans plenty of exciting fights over the years and it will be sad to see him ultimately retire, but no man is immune to Father Time, especially in the brutal world of mixed martial arts.
Hopefully Mir can provide a few more fireworks in the Octagon before he finally says goodbye. Many MMA fans want to see the veteran finish strong. He deserves a hero’s ovation after what he has given us throughout the years.
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