UFC 144 Final Predictions: Frankie Edgar vs. Benson Henderson

In a highly anticipated title bout, 155-pound champion Frankie Edgar will meet fast-rising lightweight Benson Henderson in the main event at UFC 144.

Edgar will be making his fourth title defense in what seems like an eternity, after battling back and forth in rematches against BJ Penn and Gray Maynard. Possessing crisp, technical boxing, combined with evasive footwork and heart, Edgar and his championship reign have been a rags-to-riches story.

Despite having beaten two of the division's top competitors, he still doesn't receive the proper respect he deserves. 

Henderson's rise in the WEC saw the 28-year-old capture the promotion's lightweight crown, only to be stopped by Anthony Pettis and his infamous "Showtime Kick" prior to merging with the UFC.

Perhaps the loss to Pettis was the best thing to happen to Henderson, who has torn through the UFC lightweight division effortlessly, looking every bit as dominant as he did in the WEC.

Edgar's elusiveness and excellent boxing have frustrated his opponents in the past. Using head movement, range and boxing technique, he has gone through every opponent in his path. He is also an accomplished wrestler. And, while he might not mount much offense when he takes his opponents down, his transition from striking to wrestling is very technical and beautiful to watch. 

Henderson's tenacious and relentless pace also can overwhelm his opponents, as he utilizes a well-rounded attack of Muay Thai and wrestling. He is also difficult to control on the ground as he has excellent scrambling ability and submission defense. Since his UFC debut, his overall game has improved leaps and bounds ahead of the rest of the competition.

It is very hard to bet against either competitor, as both of their styles are equally as effective. 

While Henderson has not faced a striker of Edgar's caliber, Edgar has never faced a wrestler with a well-balanced attack of Henderson's caliber. The champion might be able to land better exchanges at certain points, but Henderson's overall style will do enough to contain Edgar and eventually overwhelm in all areas. 

What Henderson lacks in technique, he makes up for with his power and athleticism. Expect to see Henderson outlast Edgar in a fast-paced, competitive bout to be crowned new UFC lightweight champion.

Prediction: Benson Henderson via unanimous decision.