Dana White: Michael Bisping to Make First Title Defense Against Dan Henderson

It appears that Michael Bisping will finally get a chance to avenge the brutal knockout loss to Dan Henderson that occurred at UFC 100 some seven years ago — only this time the stakes will be even higher.

UFC President Dana White announced on Fox Sports 1 Saturday night that Bisping’s first middleweight title defense will be against Henderson. The promotion is targeting Manchester, England, for the bout, but the location is not set in stone.

“We’re going to do Dan Henderson vs. Michael Bisping,” White said. “It’s a fight that the champ wants. It’s a fight that the fans want. We’re thinking about doing it in Manchester, England. But that’s not signed yet.”

Bisping captured the 185-pound belt with a shocking first-round knockout of Luke Rockhold at UFC 199 on June 4. “The Count has won four straight fights in the Octagon and five of his last six overall. His loss to Henderson at UFC 100 ranks among the sport’s most memorable knockouts, and the Brit has long desired to face Henderson again.

The title opportunity comes at a strange time for the 45-year-old Henderson, who has won just three of his last nine UFC appearances. However, “Hendo” is coming off a surprising second-round knockout of Hector Lombard at UFC 199.