Sunday night played host to UFC Fight Night 59 in Boston. The card, headlined by Conor McGregor and Dennis Siver, was stacked with talent and generally seemed to entertain all who watched.
The co-main event was a lightweight bout between former UFC champion Benson Henderson and Donald Cerrone. Cerrone took the fight on just 15 days notice but was able to edge Henderson on the scorecards.
It was a close call, but it puts Henderson on a losing streak. He needs to win his next fight, but being who he is, there will be no easy opponent next time out.
Here are three fights the UFC can make next for Henderson.
Gilbert Melendez
Gilbert Melendez and Henderson fought in 2013 while Henderson was champion. Henderson walked out the champion, but it was a close fight that very easily could have gone to Melendez.
Melendez had a second failed bid to win the UFC title in his last fight with Anthony Pettis and would likely love to try to avenge that close loss. He’s got the style that can give Henderson fits and make this a very close bout.
This bout could give both men closure from their previous encounter. It’s also a high-level bout that would be a must-see by UFC fans.
Diego Sanchez
Let’s face it: Benson Henderson and Diego Sanchez are both known for winning controversial decisions. That’s why a fight between the two could be interesting.
Obviously, Henderson is vastly superior to Sanchez and would likely win the fight easily. However, Henderson needs a winnable fight in his next outing, as he needs to snap his current skid and get back into title contention.
Make it a UFC Fight Night main event, put it in the Southwest and let it unfold.
Edson Barboza/Michael Johnson loser
There are a lot of lightweights currently tied up with fights. Two of those lightweights are top fighters Edson Barboza and Michael Johnson, who will fight each other soon.
Barboza is a devastating striker who can knock anybody in the division out. Johnson is an all-around threat with great wrestling ability and developed hands.
Both men would be suitable opponents for Henderson. Whoever comes out on the short end should get Henderson next.
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