Benson Henderson vs. Thiago Alves Confirmed For UFC Korea Main Event
The UFC is heading to Seoul, South Korea for the very first time, as a UFC Fight Night card will take place on November 27, 2015 from the Olympic Gymnastics Arena.
Earlier this week, it was reported that the UFC was targeting a possible welterweight main event between former lightweight champion Benson “Smooth” Henderson, and former title challenger Thiago “Pitbull” Alves for the card, and according to Sherdog, the fight has indeed been confirmed.
After losing two-straight bouts at 155-pounds to current champion Rafael dos Anjos, and now title challenger Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, Henderson decided to test the waters at 170-pounds. He made his welterweight debut on short notice last February, scoring an inspiring submission win over the much larger Brandon “Rukus” Thatch.
“Smooth” will look to make a name for himself in the division against the always tough Alves.
Speaking of the “Pitbull”, the Brazilian slugger was riding a two-fight streak, which included wins over Seth Baczynski, and Jordan Mein before he ran into current title challenger Carlos Condit. Alves dropped a TKO loss to Condit last May, and will look to get back on track against Henderson.
According to Sherdog, the UFC has also confirmed the remainder of the four-fight main card. Heavyweights Mirko Cro Cop, and Anthony Hamilton will square off, which was already confirmed. Also, welterweights Dong Hyun Kim and Jorge Masvidal will fight, as well as welterweights Yoshiro Akiyama and Alberto Mino.
The UFC has definitely put together a card that will appeal to the South Korean faithful, especially with Henderson in the main event, as his mother is of Korean descent, making this a very special event for him.
While Alves will look to remain relevant in the crowded welterweight landscape, Henderson will look to emerge as a true threat. Who gets it done come November?
