Ben Henderson says it would be "criminal" not to give Frankie Edgar a rematch

UFC Lightweight Champion Benson Henderson, who will meet Frankie Edgar for the second time this year, looks back on his performance in Japan and shares his thoughts on “The Answer” being granted an immediate rematch. Henderson says he “absolutely” agrees with the decision to book the rematch, insisting that not doing so would be “criminal.” The champ also talks about a future encounter with Anthony Pettis, who currently stands as the last man to defeat him.

Ben Henderson

“Frankie gave two rematches. It’s criminal not to give him a rematch after a decision, because as a champ, he gave two rematches. I think it’s something that has to be done sometimes. There’s just no alternative. It does create a bit of a log-jam, I guess you could say, for the top. But, if you’re a challenger, the idea is you have to keep winning – it doesn’t matter. You have to keep on winning. So, if there’s a log-jam – guess what? You got to fight. You got to win. Oh well, that’s the way life goes.”

I would say probably not so much (does Anthony Pettis deserve a title shot). He had a split decision over an unranked Jeremy Stephens. I believe Ariel Helwani had Joe Lauzon ranked number-ten. Nice win – a good stoppage over a number-ten guy. I don’t think that catapults you over guys like Jim Miller or Nate Diaz, who are on a nice little run. So, it’s hard to say, really. … We’re going to do it. Before I retire, before I die – he and I are going to dance again in the Octagon.””

Further Reading: Ben Henderson vs. Frankie Edgar II set for Summer event