Benson Henderson is making his return to competition at PFL Brussels after a three-year absence from the sport. The former UFC and WEC lightweight champion is now 42 years old and has been inactive since his last fight. The card for PFL Brussels has been announced with Henderson's comeback bout included. The post expresses curiosity about Henderson's compensation for this return fight given his veteran status and lengthy layoff. No opponent or specific details about Henderson's matchup were provided in the announcement.
Benson Henderson is set to end a three-year absence from mixed martial arts with a return bout at PFL Brussels, the organization confirmed as part of the event's announced card.
Henderson, nicknamed "Smooth," is one of the most decorated lightweights of his generation. The 42-year-old American holds a professional record of 24 wins and 7 losses and trains out of MMA Lab. A southpaw standing five-foot-nine with a 70-inch reach, he is a former champion in both the UFC and WEC at 155 pounds. Over the course of his career he has averaged 2.93 significant strikes landed per minute at 45 percent accuracy, while also posing a consistent grappling threat with 2.4 takedowns per 15 minutes and 0.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes — a well-rounded profile that made him one of the division's most complete fighters during his prime years.
No opponent has been announced for Henderson's comeback bout, leaving the specific matchup unclear ahead of the Brussels card.
Why it matters
- Henderson's return gives PFL Brussels a recognizable veteran name with genuine championship pedigree
- At 42 and after three years away, questions around his current competitive level add intrigue to the matchup once an opponent is confirmed
- His grappling-heavy, versatile style will be worth monitoring against whoever the organization selects to welcome him back
