UFC 157: What We Learned from Dan Henderson vs. Lyoto Machida

In the UFC 157 co-main event, light heavyweight contenders Lyoto Machida and Dan Henderson battled for a full 15 minutes. The fight was very tight from beginning to end, and the outcome was uncertain until the scores were read.

In the end, Machida got the nod, winning via split decision. 

What we'll remember about this fight

In terms of the action itself, the bout wasn't thrilling, but the sheer magnitude of the matchup was enough to keep the butterfly feeling active for the entire 15 minutes.

Consequently, we'll probably just remember this as a big win for Machida, and if all goes according to the script, the victory that propelled him into a title fight. 

What we learned about Lyoto Machida

Nothing new really. He employed the same methodical style he always does, and it produced the same result that it usually does.

He continues to operate at the top of the division and is now in line for a rematch with the champ.

What we learned about Dan Henderson

Like Machida, Henderson didn't really show us anything completely original. That isn't a knock on his performance; he looked good, as he usually does. 

The fight was very close and Henderson should remain no more than a win or two away from a title shot.

What's next for Machida

Another crack at the UFC light heavyweight title. Whether that comes against Jon Jones or Chael Sonnen remains to be seen.

What's next for Henderson

Potentially the winner of Alexander Gustafsson vs. Gegard Mousasi. Otherwise, another fight with Shogun Rua might be in order.