Benson Henderson Looking To Give Rustam Khabilov A “Rude Awakening” On Saturday
This Saturday, former WEC and UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson will take on top Dagestani prospect Rustam Khabilov hoping to cement his position as one of the top fighters still in his division.
“Bendo” takes on the No.14 ranked Khabilov who’s riding a six-fight winning streak and rolled over his first three opponents in the UFC. The 27-year olds recent run has managed to shoot him into the official UFC rankings and if he beats Henderson on Saturday he could find himself looking at a UFC title shot.
In a recent interview with AXS TV’s “Inside MMA” Henderson said the UFC has so much depth that there are different levels of fighters in each division and you have to be ready to take on the upper echelon of fighters. If not, then you’re in for a “rude awakening” according to the former champ:
“All of the fighters in the UFC are the best fighters on the planet, period. With that being said, within the UFC there’s a echelon…. a ladder system of how tough guys are.” Henderson said. “I’ve experienced some of the best fighters in the UFC that they have to offer. I’ve fought some of the best guys in the UFC, like Frankie Edgar, like Gilbert Melendez; those guys are amazing.
When you get to that level it’s a big step up. If your not ready for it, or your not prepared, it can be a rude awakening. That’s what I’m going to try and give Rustam, I’m going to try and give him a rude awakening.”
Checkout the video below courtesy of AXS TV:
