Win, lose or draw against UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping in the UK later this year, and MMA legend Dan Henderson insists he’s heading for retirement – belt around his waist or not.
Rumoured to be headlining UFC 204 in Manchester, England in October, Henderson’s rematch with ‘The Count’ will be the final chapter in the glittering career of the future Hall of Fame alumni.
“I’m pretty sure it will be a pay-per-view and I’d expect that it happens relatively soon, possibly in the next couple of days,” Henderson stated yesterday. “We should be able to get it figured out.
“I’m waiting to hear the exact date and where, but I’m almost positive it will happen. There’s no reason why it shouldn’t at this point. I’ve heard a number of things but I believe it could be in a stadium over there in Manchester.”
Henderson, who turns 46 next month, says his mind is ready to check out even if, physically, he could continue to fight a while longer.
“That is my plan, win or lose I’m ready mentally to retire,” says Henderson (32-14). “My body could still probably go another two, three years more. I’ve put it through enough. I’m ready to take it a little bit easier, but still be involved in MMA doing something a little bit different than fighting”.
The ‘H-Bomb’ which landed perfectly on Bisping’s chin back at UFC 100 remains one of the most replayed knockouts in UFC history. Henderson even has a logo of that moment on his fight shorts. And the former Strikeforce and Pride champion expects history to repeat itself.
“I’m sure the he wants that one back but that one he’ll never get back,” Henderson told the Talking Brawls Podcast. “That one is instilled in the history books with some of the more favorite knockouts out there, but I’m hoping to add one more to it…
“I plan on doing everything in my power to beat his ass again. I’m excited to get in there and hopefully do the same thing I did to him the last time.”
* Be sure to check out the September issue of Fighters Only which goes on sale from August 1st for more exclusive content from both Dan Henderson and Michael Bisping.
