UFN 42 Fight Breakdown: Ben Henderson vs. Rustam Khabilov

We are just a few days out from UFC Fight Night 42 in Albuquerque and the card looks set to produce fireworks.

UFC Fight Night 42 will go down inside the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, New Mexico on June 7. The event is available on Fox Sports 1 as well as UFC Fight Pass.

Headlining Saturday’s event is a pivotal battle in the 155 pound division between former champ Benson Henderson and the No.11 ranked Rustam Khabilov. It’s an intriguing battle and should prove to be an exciting fight. So let’s take a closer look at how both men match up:

Striking

Coming from a Tae Kwon Do background, “Bendo” is a versatile striker with powerful kicks. However, Henderson has shown some weakness with in his striking defense when he’s gone up against elite stand-up fighters.

Despite being known for his grappling skills, Khabilov showed a huge improvement in his standup during his last fight with Jorge Masvidal, battering the Strikeforce vet on the feet for three straight rounds. “Smooth” has the advantage but he will have to be on top form Saturday to prevent a upset. 60/40 Henderson.

Takedowns

This is where the debate really gets interesting. Khabilov is a former Sambo world champion, and in his three fights in the UFC, he’s managed to out-grapple all his opponents.

“Bendo” is a dominant grappler himself, being a NAIA All-American wrestler, and nearly always has the advantage grappling when he steps into the cage. But with Khabilov’s skills, I think he will have trouble on Saturday night. This one’s 50/50.

Submissions

Even though he lost his title to Anthony Pettis by armbar, Henderson has an outstanding submission game and is a tough challenge for anyone on the mat. The 30-year old has submitted eight people in his career.

His opponent is no slouch on the ground either and has five submissions to his name. Khabilov has also never been submitted, but he hasn’t faced the same level of competition. “Bendo” gets the slight advantage here. 55/45 Henderson.

Who do you think will have the advantage on Saturday?