The Ultimate Fighting Championship goes to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the first time, as UFC 164: Henderson vs. Pettis 2 takes place at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on Saturday, August 31, 2013.
The main event features one of the most anticipated rematches in the UFC, as Benson Henderson fights Anthony Pettis for the second time—and this one is for the UFC Lightweight Championship. Many remember Pettis’ “Showtime Kick” in their first bout that gave him the win and the WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting) Lightweight Championship.
If Henderson is looking to be the first lightweight to defend his title four-straight times, he’s going to have to beat the last person who defeated him.
In the co-main event, Frank Mir welcomes Josh Barnett back to the UFC, who returns for the first time in 11 years. Two featherweight bouts featuring four of the top-ten fighters in the 145-lb division are set to take place, as number-one ranked Chad Mendes faces number-nine Clay Guida and number-ten Eric Koch battles number-seven Dustin Poirier.
Also, Jamie Varner goes against Gleison Tibau in the preliminary card’s main event.
UFC 164 Odds & Betting Lines: Benson Henderson vs. Anthony Pettis
Benson Henderson (UFC 164 Odds: TBD)
Anthony Pettis (UFC 164 Odds: TBD)
Betting on Benson Henderson for UFC 164
Since coming from WEC to UFC in 2011, Benson Henderson has won all seven of his UFC fights, including the UFC lightweight belt in his fourth fight. The fighter known as “Smooth” has successfully defended his title three times, but not without controversy.
He defeated Frankie Edgar and recently Gilbert Melendez in close battles. Many people complained that the win should have been a loss. Despite the controversy, Henderson is set to become the first UFC lightweight to defend his title four-straight times.
His excellent wrestling and diverse striking provide an arsenal that opponents will have a hard time planning against. The Arizona-based fighter is fast, strong and technical in all aspects of the game. Henderson will be looking for revenge with a win and a successful title defense in Milwaukee. Bet on Benson Henderson at Top Bet once odds are released.
Benson Henderson’s Last Five Fights
Date
Opponent
Method
04/20/2013
Gilbert Melendez
Win via SD
12/08/2012
Nate Diaz
Win via UD
08/11/2012
Frankie Edgar
Win via SD
02/26/2012
Frankie Edgar
Win via UD
11/12/2011
Clay Guida
Win via UD
*SD- Split Decision UD – Unanimous Decision, KO – Knockout, TKO –Technical Knockout
Betting on Anthony Pettis for UFC 164
Being the last WEC lightweight champion, Anthony Pettis should have had his title shot in 2011, but a myriad of injuries set him back. Now that he’s finally getting his shot, it’s a fortunate coincidence that he will face the person he beat for the WEC title.
He will be fighting for the UFC belt in front of his hometown. The man they call “Showtime” has created his own highlight reel with four wins out of his last five fights: the kick to the body that finished Donald Cerrone, the head kick that knocked Joe Lauzon out, and of course, his “Showtime” kick against Henderson in their first bout that has found its way into countless UFC highlight packages.
The Milwaukee-based fighter has demonstrated a dynamic, unique and unorthodox style that often confuses his opponents. His athleticism gives him the edge in every fight. Although coming off a knee injury, he has plans to beat Henderson and become champion. Bet on Anthony Pettis at Top Bet sportsbook once odds are released.
Anthony Pettis’ Last Five Fights
Date
Opponent
Method
01/26/2013
Donald Cerrone
Win via KO/TKO (RD 1)
02/26/2012
Joe Lauzon
Win via KO/TKO (RD 1)
10/08/2011
Jeremy Stephens
Win via SD
06/04/2011
Clay Guida
Loss via UD
12/16/2010
Benson Henderson
Win via UD
*SD- Split Decision UD – Unanimous Decision, KO – Knockout, TKO –Technical Knockout
On the UFC 164 Fight Card
Main Card:
Benson Henderson (c) (19-2) vs. Anthony Pettis (16-2) – for the UFC Lightweight Championship
Frank Mir (16-7) vs. Josh Barnett (32-6) – Heavyweight
Chad Mendes (14-1) vs. Clay Guida (30-13) – Featherweight
Ben Rothwell (32-9) vs. Brandon Vera (12-6, 1 NC) – Heavyweight
Erik Koch (13-2) vs. Dustin Poirier (13-3) – Featherweight
Since coming from WEC to UFC in 2011, Benson Henderson has won all seven of his UFC fights, including the UFC lightweight belt in his fourth fight. The fighter known as “Smooth” has successfully defended his title three times, but not without controversy.
Being the last WEC lightweight champion, Anthony Pettis should have had his title shot in 2011, but a myriad of injuries set him back. Now that he’s finally getting his shot, it’s a fortunate coincidence that he will face the person he beat for the WEC title.
