This is a great match-up! However, I've been thoroughly unimpressed by Henderson's fights in the UFC. I do think it'll be a great fight and I as well, pick Franklin by decision.
I didn't see as much of pride Hendo as others, but from what I've seen recently he doesn't live up to his old hype. Apart from some good ground control in the first round against Silva he hasn't done anything too special and he's getting pretty old. I also don't see how his stand up is better than Franklin's. He throws a big right hand and landed a haymaker left hook on Wand, but Franklin can do a lot more and is a lot quicker. I think Franklin will win a decision in this one. Does anyone know why this would be at 205 if Henderson is supposed to be the 185 coach for tuf to get another shot at Silva? Seems weird to me...
I've heard, the winner of this fight will be the coach of the next tuf and fight Bisping and then possibly face Silva. I can understand Henderson wanting to have another shot at Silva. But why would Franklin cut weight after only two fights at 205 to fight Bisping only to have a third shot at Silva (he already said he doesn't know why people would want to see that)? Or to fight Bisping at 185 and move back to 205 again? I think Franklin's fights at 205 are much more intriguing and don't see a reason to be fluctuating weight that often. Seems like it'd some serious and tough training to be moving up and down in weight.
I lean towards Franklin for a few reasons. First off Henderson does not have better standup not even close he doesnt kick often and just swings for the fences with that right hand. Franklins much more crisp and throws more combos and has underatted kicks. Franklin would probablly pick him apart I dont see him KOing him as Hendos chin is insane and of course Henderson has brutal power and can catch Rich. Henderson has the better wrestling and if he gets inside can take him down and would take him down but what exactly would he do ? Hendersons never had great GNP and Richs BJJ is pretty good. I GOT Rich UD he should outpoint him but its no gimmie I suppose Henderson could control him on the ground or knock him out.
Have to take Henderson via the ground n pound route. If Franklin gives him trouble standing - Henderson will secure the takedown and batter Rich on the ground. This should be a great fight. I've underestimated Franklin before so if he pulls it out I wouldn't be surprised.