Edgar vs. Henderson: Dominant Edgar Will Stop Rise of Overmatched Henderson

Ben Henderson has won all three of his UFC fights since making the move from WEC, but he'll be no match for UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar at UFC 144.

Edgar has dominated every opponent not named Gray Maynard throughout his career. For whatever reason, Maynard has developed an approach to keep Edgar off balance. However, no other fighter has been able to emulate it against the New Jersey native.

His résumé includes two wins over B.J. Penn en route to a 14-1-1 career record, and he seems to be getting stronger as time goes on.

The biggest advantage he holds over most fighters, including Henderson, is his ability to take absorb shots without it taking much out of him. Eight of his 14 wins have come by decision, which is rare because so many fighters try to end fights quickly to limit damage.

Edgar is much more tactical. He's willing to wait for his opponent to get frustrated. Once their guard goes down, Edgar goes on the offensive are rarely loses momentum for the remaining portion of the high.

Henderson simply hasn't faced somebody of his caliber during his career. His November win over Clay Guida was impressive, but Edgar is another step—maybe even two—up the ladder. It would take an effort beyond anything we've seen from him the past to emerge victorious.

At just 28 years old, Henderson still has a bright future ahead of him. It usually takes a couple marquee bouts before a fighter finds their footing at the highest level, however. This is Henderson's first foray into a pressure-packed matchup for a UFC title.

On the other hand, this will be Edgar's fifth such fight. That experience is another edge he has heading into the octagon.

Since both guys are near the top of the division, it wouldn't be surprising if this was the first of a couple meetings between them.

As far as UFC 144 is concerned, though, Edgar will illustrate his lightweight dominance once again.