Musings for Yesterday’s UFC 164: Henderson vs. Pettis
Anthony Pettis
The former WEC champ showed how different of a fighter he is right now than before he began competing at the UFC. Pettis displayed his improved striking and takedown defense as early as the first round of his scheduled five round championship fight against Benson Henderson. He landed several body kicks on Henderson's body, and the champ has no choice but to try to take him down. However, every time Henderson attempted a take down, Pettis quickly scrolled. And when the fight went in the ground one time in the fight, Pettis locked an armbar quickly and finished Henderson.
Pettis definitely showed lot of potentials and proved that he is someone who can hold the lightweight belt for a long time. Nonetheless, in his interview after the fight, he seemed to be setting his sight already on a matchup with featherweight champ Jose Aldo. If he wants that fight to happen he got to drop down to featherweight.
For me, he should focus right now on defending his title, maybe at least one time before considering dropping down weight. The first reason is a fight with Aldo is a very dangerous fight, considering that it would be his first time fighting in that weight class. Second reason is there are still a lot of contenders in the lightweight division whom he should fight.
Benson Henderson
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Henderson quoted from the Bible in his interview after the fight, telling Joe Rogan and the fans that he will be back. Henderson had been a great champ and a fighter who is full of class and passion. That is why, seeing him lose is one of those depressing moments in the Octagon.
Henderson, who won the UFC lightweight belt on Feb 12, 2012, defended his title three times before being stopped by Pettis, who seems to have the kryptonite for Henderson's strengths.
With Henderson's ever improving game, it would not be a surprise if he quickly makes his way to the top again. A win or two against top competitors would surely make the UFC consider him again for a title shot.