Post by The Sandmen on Jul 24, 2012 11:26:38 GMT -5
People are cheering for this fighter. You can hear Rich Franklin chants all around the place!
Dan Henderson is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.
Rich Franklin glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
Henderson is not prefered by the MMA media to win tonight. He will have to do his best to score a win.
The referee of the bout is Josh Rosenthal.
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Round 1
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The bell announces the first round!
Rich Franklin tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Henderson is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to move to full mount
Franklin succeeds
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Rich Franklin keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 0:45 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Franklin's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Henderson launches a few fake punches and tries to escape!
Franklin is covering himself! Henderson tries to force the situation and Franklin clumsily gives his back!
Henderson is in rear mount over Franklin
Franklin has Henderson controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Henderson is unable to move under Franklin control.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson hovers above Franklin
Good punches to Franklin's body.
Henderson is in rear mount over Franklin
Franklin has Henderson controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Showing some ground skills he transitions to a side mount.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson throws a flurry of punches at Franklin...
Franklin is defending himself well. None of them connect.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin sees an opening and locks his opponent in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Dan Henderson manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Dan Henderson in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to open Franklin's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Dan Henderson. Franklin is unable to cover himself now!
Franklin's Forehead is beginning to swell
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 2:30 in the 1 round
Henderson wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin tries to take Dan Henderson down... Henderson stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
One swing hits hard Henderson's jaw!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Henderson takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters and tells them to continue fighting.
Henderson fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rich Franklin didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
The clock says 3:15 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He is not able to do it
The clock says 3:25 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson fakes some punches
Franklin ties him up.
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He succeeds!
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to better his position on the ground...
Henderson breaks the closed guard of Rich Franklin and moves to half guard
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to show some ground skills
Rich Franklin put Henderson in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson fakes some punches
Franklin ties him up.
Dan Henderson gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson pushes Franklin's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Henderson who is in full mount! Franklin is in trouble now!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Henderson throws a few hammer fists to the face of Rich Franklin
Solid shots!
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Forehead
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin is taking this opportunity to rest.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Dan Henderson doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Rich Franklin.
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Round 2
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Franklin is holding Dan Henderson's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dan Henderson loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin throws a few hammer fists to the face of Dan Henderson
Solid shots!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson breaths deeply while on the ground
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
This match is even... This could go the distance.
Rich Franklin hovers above Henderson
Good punches to Henderson's body.
The clock says 0:50 in the 2 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin has a high cardio that helps him make great performances.
Henderson tries to escape from the full mount...
Rich Franklin is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin gets a good position on the ground. ..
and what an incredible flurry! He's just wailing away at Dan Henderson! The referee is saying he's going to stop it if Dan Henderson doesn't defend himself!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Dan Henderson's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
Henderson's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Henderson's face with those brutal elbows! Henderson needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Dan Henderson. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Henderson launches a hook to the body
Rich Franklin moves aside looking for a counter...
Dan Henderson gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Pulverizing punch to Henderson's head!
Ouch, that had to hurt!
The clock says 2:00 in the 2 round
Dan Henderson tries to take the action to his favourite field as he tries to grapple
Rich Franklin swings and Henderson has to retreat
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Dan Henderson, who is barely covering up!
Henderson's Nose is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Dan Henderson's Nose
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin aggressively and repeatedly punches Henderson.
Good job by Henderson blocking and slipping the blows.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He succeeds!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin passes momentarily but Dan Henderson regains full guard.
The clock says 3:10 in the 2 round
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Henderson measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Franklin's side.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Franklin is in closed guard... Henderson tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rich Franklin!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Henderson drills Rich Franklin's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
Franklin's Nose is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of Henderson's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Henderson blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Dan Henderson looks to counter!
Henderson tries to open up Rich Franklin's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Franklin in the side of the head
Franklin's Forehead is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Forehead
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Henderson tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Rich Franklin fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
it lands on Henderson's chin
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to open up Dan Henderson's defense faking a few punches.
Dan Henderson wraps his arms around Franklin's arms and counters the punches.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Dan Henderson launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Franklin tries to cover his face,
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
That was an even round for the most part.
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Round 3
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Henderson shows no signs of slowing down. He's in great shape.
Franklin throws a lazy kick
Henderson blocks and keeps his distance.
Franklin moves aside and launches a furious low kick!
Hard blow to Henderson's thigh!
The clock says 0:35 in the 3 round
Franklin is holding Dan Henderson's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dan Henderson shows great balance while pushing away Rich Franklin
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson attempts to cut off Franklin with punches
Franklin avoids getting cornered.
Rich Franklin throws an uppercut
Henderson slips it.
Franklin throws a low kick
Dan Henderson blocks.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Henderson launches a furious hook!
That hits Franklin's chin like a wrecking ball! Franklin loses balance and goes to the mat.
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Henderson decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside Franklin's guard.
Franklin tries to fight back with his feet and Henderson just needs another plan now.
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Franklin climbs to his feet and is standing now.
Dan Henderson launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
Franklin blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Rich Franklin's cheek! Franklin stumbles and the falls to the mat!
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Left cheek
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Dan Henderson creates space and allows Rich Franklin to stand up.
Rich Franklin is on his feet again.
Tremendous strikes from Henderson!
Franklin blocks with confidence
Franklin tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Rich Franklin swings...
hard impact to Henderson's face!
Rich Franklin fakes a punch and launches himself over Henderson!
Nice move by Franklin who clinches and pushes Henderson against the cage
The fighters are clinching.
Brutal punches to Franklin's face while in the clinch!
Franklin pushes Dan Henderson with all his might as tries to keep the fight in striking range.
Dan Henderson and Franklin engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
The clock says 2:30 in the 3 round
Henderson pushes Rich Franklin and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Henderson is holding Rich Franklin's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rich Franklin loses balance and goes to the ground.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Dan Henderson in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
The clock says 3:15 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He is not able to do it
The clock says 3:40 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson pushes Rich Franklin against the fence and then tries to improve his position.
Henderson jumps and tries to free his leg! Franklin doesn't allow this but Dan Henderson is able to get half guard here.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Dan Henderson keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Dan Henderson in closed guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson is cooling the fight on the ground
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson tries to escape from the closed guard
Henderson succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Henderson tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 4:55 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Not a desiderable position that Henderson is in now. Rich Franklin is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
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Round 4
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The clock says 0:10 in the 4 round
Franklin decides to launch some tentative punches
Henderson launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Franklin with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
The clock says 0:20 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Rich Franklin fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
Henderson blocks that. He made it look easy!
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Henderson tries to grapple
He puts Franklin in a double underhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Franklin struggles and launches a few punches to Henderson's head
Nothing from this... Rich Franklin seems frustrated.
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson gets himself into good position and looks to change levels for the takedown...
Henderson gets hold of a leg and trips Franklin to the mat!
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dan Henderson is looking to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Dan Henderson gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 1:00 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Dan Henderson in closed guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Dan Henderson uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:25 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of Henderson's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Henderson blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Franklin can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson looks to posture up and open Rich Franklin's guard...
Rich Franklin has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 1:40 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Dan Henderson!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to open Henderson's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Rich Franklin. Henderson is unable to cover himself now!
The clock says 1:55 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson is taking this opportunity to rest.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and get to half guard...
Rich Franklin rolls Dan Henderson to his stomach and takes his back!
The clock says 2:20 in the 4 round
Franklin is in rear mount over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Rich Franklin isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Henderson locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Rich Franklin unil he can pull his arm free! Franklin lost his dominant position.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin is taking this opportunity to rest.
Josh Rosenthal has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Dan Henderson throws a combo
Franklin punches back but nobody connects.
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Henderson avoids a dangerous strike from Franklin
and fends him off with feel-out punches.
Franklin is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Franklin tries some clinching in order to control the fight...
Well done. Franklin is clinching with Henderson.
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson grapple with Rich Franklin and tries a Inner leg Sweep
Rich Franklin falls hard on the mat with Dan Henderson on top of him
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Dan Henderson moves to better his position on the ground...
Dan Henderson viciously slams hammer blows to Franklin's face!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Dan Henderson slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Henderson tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dan Henderson controls the situation despite Rich Franklin efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Franklin tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Dan Henderson doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson throws a lot of punches
some strikes get through.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Franklin is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Dan Henderson tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Franklin is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Henderson clumsily fails here and it's time for Rich Franklin to fight back!
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson sits high on Rich Franklin's chest and pulls his leg underneath Franklin's head. There's the triangle attempt!
Franklin tries to roll out. He's too quick for Dan Henderson and manages to slip out! That was a risky move by Henderson and it cost him top position.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Rich Franklin is looking to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 4:55 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in half guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was a close round.
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Round 5
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These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with Henderson
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin tries to take Dan Henderson down... Henderson stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
Dan Henderson dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Dan Henderson tries to take advantage...
Henderson goes to the body...
He punishes Franklin's ribs with a couple of hooks.
The clock says 0:45 in the 5 round
Henderson looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Rich Franklin's punches
Henderson is on the receiving end of a great combo by Franklin.
The clock says 0:55 in the 5 round
Franklin launches a furious low kick!
Henderson receives a hard blow on his right leg!
Franklin grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Henderson struggles... Rich Franklin is unable to take him down
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Surprise roundhouse punch by Henderson.
Rich Franklin's reflexes save him!
Franklin is trying to counter now!
Franklin launches a hook to the body
Bang! Henderson stops that one with his ribs!
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin is measuring Henderson with his jab.
Henderson isn't fazed.
Franklin moves forward looking for some action
Dan Henderson struggles a bit before breaking Franklin's attemp of grappling
Dan Henderson closes the distance with his opponent wanting some action.
Henderson looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Rich Franklin's punches
Franklin is on the receiving end of a great combo by Henderson.
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Henderson measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Henderson misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
Good looking punches from Rich Franklin on the ground
They could take their toll on Henderson.
There is a small laceration on Dan Henderson's Nose
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Good looking punches from Rich Franklin on the ground
They could take their toll on Henderson.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Henderson's face with those brutal elbows! Henderson needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Henderson's Mouth is beginning to swell
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to jump to side mount.
Dan Henderson closed his guard around Rich Franklin.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Dan Henderson's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
The clock says 3:05 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin looks to mount Dan Henderson...
Rich Franklin slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Rich Franklin controls the situation despite Dan Henderson efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Dan Henderson gets his hips out and gets to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to escape from the closed guard
Franklin succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to stand up!
Franklin doesn't allow him!
The clock says 3:40 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Dan Henderson doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Franklin's moves.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
Rich Franklin wants this win. He unleashes a kick.
Brutal high kick to Henderson!
Henderson's Right eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
The clock says 4:20 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with Henderson
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Franklin and Dan Henderson are cliched up against the cage. Franklin steps for a throw
Dan Henderson is gets thrown to the mat but gets right back up
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
The two exchange wildly
Both fighters are missing terribly.
Josh Rosenthal tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
That was an even round for the most part.
Winner is Rich Franklin by Unanimous decision
Statistics: Dan Henderson
Punches 11/29 (38%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/5 (0%)
Takedowns 3/3 (100%)
GnP strikes 24/38 (63%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 932 s
Statistics: Rich Franklin
Punches 15/25 (60%)
Kicks 3/4 (75%)
Clinch strikes 1/9 (11%)
Takedowns 5/7 (71%)
GnP strikes 44/78 (56%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 4/4 (100%)
Time on the ground 965 s
This was a great fight. Lots of back and forth action, but not just that. The back and forth action was unpredictable. Sometimes someone would dish out massive damage over a short burst (Franklins first big onslaught hurt Dan for a long time). Othertimes, there were longer periods of small consistent damage (Dan, round 3 I think it was). Both fighters closed the fight with nearly the same amount of remaining health, so this would have been a great one to see go more rounds. In the end, the decision is probably the correct one, as Franklin had more time in charge, and did the most damaging attacks.
Dan Henderson is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.
Rich Franklin glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
Henderson is not prefered by the MMA media to win tonight. He will have to do his best to score a win.
The referee of the bout is Josh Rosenthal.
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Round 1
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The bell announces the first round!
Rich Franklin tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Henderson is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to move to full mount
Franklin succeeds
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Rich Franklin keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 0:45 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Franklin's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Henderson launches a few fake punches and tries to escape!
Franklin is covering himself! Henderson tries to force the situation and Franklin clumsily gives his back!
Henderson is in rear mount over Franklin
Franklin has Henderson controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Henderson is unable to move under Franklin control.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson hovers above Franklin
Good punches to Franklin's body.
Henderson is in rear mount over Franklin
Franklin has Henderson controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Showing some ground skills he transitions to a side mount.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson throws a flurry of punches at Franklin...
Franklin is defending himself well. None of them connect.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin sees an opening and locks his opponent in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Dan Henderson manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Dan Henderson in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to open Franklin's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Dan Henderson. Franklin is unable to cover himself now!
Franklin's Forehead is beginning to swell
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 2:30 in the 1 round
Henderson wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin tries to take Dan Henderson down... Henderson stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
One swing hits hard Henderson's jaw!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Henderson takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters and tells them to continue fighting.
Henderson fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rich Franklin didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
The clock says 3:15 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He is not able to do it
The clock says 3:25 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson fakes some punches
Franklin ties him up.
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He succeeds!
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to better his position on the ground...
Henderson breaks the closed guard of Rich Franklin and moves to half guard
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to show some ground skills
Rich Franklin put Henderson in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson fakes some punches
Franklin ties him up.
Dan Henderson gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson pushes Franklin's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Henderson who is in full mount! Franklin is in trouble now!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Henderson throws a few hammer fists to the face of Rich Franklin
Solid shots!
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Forehead
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin is taking this opportunity to rest.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Dan Henderson doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Rich Franklin.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Franklin is holding Dan Henderson's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dan Henderson loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin throws a few hammer fists to the face of Dan Henderson
Solid shots!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson breaths deeply while on the ground
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
This match is even... This could go the distance.
Rich Franklin hovers above Henderson
Good punches to Henderson's body.
The clock says 0:50 in the 2 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin has a high cardio that helps him make great performances.
Henderson tries to escape from the full mount...
Rich Franklin is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin gets a good position on the ground. ..
and what an incredible flurry! He's just wailing away at Dan Henderson! The referee is saying he's going to stop it if Dan Henderson doesn't defend himself!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Dan Henderson's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
Henderson's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Henderson's face with those brutal elbows! Henderson needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Dan Henderson. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Henderson launches a hook to the body
Rich Franklin moves aside looking for a counter...
Dan Henderson gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Pulverizing punch to Henderson's head!
Ouch, that had to hurt!
The clock says 2:00 in the 2 round
Dan Henderson tries to take the action to his favourite field as he tries to grapple
Rich Franklin swings and Henderson has to retreat
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Dan Henderson, who is barely covering up!
Henderson's Nose is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Dan Henderson's Nose
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin aggressively and repeatedly punches Henderson.
Good job by Henderson blocking and slipping the blows.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He succeeds!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin passes momentarily but Dan Henderson regains full guard.
The clock says 3:10 in the 2 round
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Henderson measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Franklin's side.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Franklin is in closed guard... Henderson tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rich Franklin!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Henderson drills Rich Franklin's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
Franklin's Nose is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of Henderson's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Henderson blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Dan Henderson looks to counter!
Henderson tries to open up Rich Franklin's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Franklin in the side of the head
Franklin's Forehead is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Forehead
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Henderson tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Rich Franklin fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
it lands on Henderson's chin
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to open up Dan Henderson's defense faking a few punches.
Dan Henderson wraps his arms around Franklin's arms and counters the punches.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Dan Henderson launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Franklin tries to cover his face,
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
Josh Rosenthal separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
That was an even round for the most part.
=========================================
Round 3
=========================================
Henderson shows no signs of slowing down. He's in great shape.
Franklin throws a lazy kick
Henderson blocks and keeps his distance.
Franklin moves aside and launches a furious low kick!
Hard blow to Henderson's thigh!
The clock says 0:35 in the 3 round
Franklin is holding Dan Henderson's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dan Henderson shows great balance while pushing away Rich Franklin
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson attempts to cut off Franklin with punches
Franklin avoids getting cornered.
Rich Franklin throws an uppercut
Henderson slips it.
Franklin throws a low kick
Dan Henderson blocks.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Henderson launches a furious hook!
That hits Franklin's chin like a wrecking ball! Franklin loses balance and goes to the mat.
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Henderson decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside Franklin's guard.
Franklin tries to fight back with his feet and Henderson just needs another plan now.
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Franklin climbs to his feet and is standing now.
Dan Henderson launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
Franklin blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Rich Franklin's cheek! Franklin stumbles and the falls to the mat!
There is a small laceration on Rich Franklin's Left cheek
Henderson is standing while Franklin is on the ground on his back
Dan Henderson creates space and allows Rich Franklin to stand up.
Rich Franklin is on his feet again.
Tremendous strikes from Henderson!
Franklin blocks with confidence
Franklin tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Rich Franklin swings...
hard impact to Henderson's face!
Rich Franklin fakes a punch and launches himself over Henderson!
Nice move by Franklin who clinches and pushes Henderson against the cage
The fighters are clinching.
Brutal punches to Franklin's face while in the clinch!
Franklin pushes Dan Henderson with all his might as tries to keep the fight in striking range.
Dan Henderson and Franklin engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
The clock says 2:30 in the 3 round
Henderson pushes Rich Franklin and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Henderson is holding Rich Franklin's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rich Franklin loses balance and goes to the ground.
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Dan Henderson in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
The clock says 3:15 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around Henderson
He is not able to do it
The clock says 3:40 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson pushes Rich Franklin against the fence and then tries to improve his position.
Henderson jumps and tries to free his leg! Franklin doesn't allow this but Dan Henderson is able to get half guard here.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Dan Henderson keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Dan Henderson in closed guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Dan Henderson is cooling the fight on the ground
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson tries to escape from the closed guard
Henderson succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
Dan Henderson is in open guard over Franklin
Henderson tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 4:55 in the 3 round
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Not a desiderable position that Henderson is in now. Rich Franklin is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
The clock says 0:10 in the 4 round
Franklin decides to launch some tentative punches
Henderson launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Franklin with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
The clock says 0:20 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Rich Franklin fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
Henderson blocks that. He made it look easy!
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Henderson tries to grapple
He puts Franklin in a double underhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Franklin struggles and launches a few punches to Henderson's head
Nothing from this... Rich Franklin seems frustrated.
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson gets himself into good position and looks to change levels for the takedown...
Henderson gets hold of a leg and trips Franklin to the mat!
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Henderson tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dan Henderson is looking to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Dan Henderson gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 1:00 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Dan Henderson in closed guard.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Dan Henderson uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:25 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of Henderson's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Henderson blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Franklin can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Dan Henderson uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson looks to posture up and open Rich Franklin's guard...
Rich Franklin has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 1:40 in the 4 round
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Dan Henderson!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to open Henderson's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Rich Franklin. Henderson is unable to cover himself now!
The clock says 1:55 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Henderson is taking this opportunity to rest.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and get to half guard...
Rich Franklin rolls Dan Henderson to his stomach and takes his back!
The clock says 2:20 in the 4 round
Franklin is in rear mount over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Rich Franklin isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Henderson locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Rich Franklin unil he can pull his arm free! Franklin lost his dominant position.
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin is taking this opportunity to rest.
Josh Rosenthal has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Dan Henderson throws a combo
Franklin punches back but nobody connects.
Franklin clumsily fails here and it's time for Dan Henderson to fight back!
Henderson avoids a dangerous strike from Franklin
and fends him off with feel-out punches.
Franklin is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Franklin tries some clinching in order to control the fight...
Well done. Franklin is clinching with Henderson.
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson grapple with Rich Franklin and tries a Inner leg Sweep
Rich Franklin falls hard on the mat with Dan Henderson on top of him
Dan Henderson is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Henderson use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) is cheering him!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Dan Henderson moves to better his position on the ground...
Dan Henderson viciously slams hammer blows to Franklin's face!
Dan Henderson is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Dan Henderson slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Henderson tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dan Henderson controls the situation despite Rich Franklin efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
Franklin tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Dan Henderson doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Henderson is trying to counter now!
Dan Henderson throws a lot of punches
some strikes get through.
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Franklin is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Dan Henderson tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Franklin is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Henderson clumsily fails here and it's time for Rich Franklin to fight back!
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to Henderson's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Henderson tries to cover his face,
Dan Henderson is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Dan Henderson sits high on Rich Franklin's chest and pulls his leg underneath Franklin's head. There's the triangle attempt!
Franklin tries to roll out. He's too quick for Dan Henderson and manages to slip out! That was a risky move by Henderson and it cost him top position.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Rich Franklin is looking to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 4:55 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in half guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin tries to pass Dan Henderson's guard...
Rich Franklin manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was a close round.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with Henderson
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin tries to take Dan Henderson down... Henderson stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
Dan Henderson dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Dan Henderson tries to take advantage...
Henderson goes to the body...
He punishes Franklin's ribs with a couple of hooks.
The clock says 0:45 in the 5 round
Henderson looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Rich Franklin's punches
Henderson is on the receiving end of a great combo by Franklin.
The clock says 0:55 in the 5 round
Franklin launches a furious low kick!
Henderson receives a hard blow on his right leg!
Franklin grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Henderson struggles... Rich Franklin is unable to take him down
You can see Franklin's blood making stains in the mat.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Surprise roundhouse punch by Henderson.
Rich Franklin's reflexes save him!
Franklin is trying to counter now!
Franklin launches a hook to the body
Bang! Henderson stops that one with his ribs!
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin is measuring Henderson with his jab.
Henderson isn't fazed.
Franklin moves forward looking for some action
Dan Henderson struggles a bit before breaking Franklin's attemp of grappling
Dan Henderson closes the distance with his opponent wanting some action.
Henderson looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Rich Franklin's punches
Franklin is on the receiving end of a great combo by Henderson.
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
Henderson goes down.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin doesn't stop bleeding.
Henderson measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Henderson misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
Good looking punches from Rich Franklin on the ground
They could take their toll on Henderson.
There is a small laceration on Dan Henderson's Nose
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Good looking punches from Rich Franklin on the ground
They could take their toll on Henderson.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin's face is covered in blood. He may be having problems seeing as he wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Rich Franklin throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Henderson's face with those brutal elbows! Henderson needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Henderson's Mouth is beginning to swell
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to jump to side mount.
Dan Henderson closed his guard around Rich Franklin.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Dan Henderson's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
The clock says 3:05 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Dan Henderson
Rich Franklin looks to mount Dan Henderson...
Rich Franklin slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Franklin tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Rich Franklin controls the situation despite Dan Henderson efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Dan Henderson gets his hips out and gets to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over Henderson
Franklin tries to escape from the closed guard
Franklin succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to stand up!
Franklin doesn't allow him!
The clock says 3:40 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Rich Franklin is a bloody mess!
Henderson tries to close his guard around Franklin
He is not able to do it
Rich Franklin is in open guard over Henderson
Dan Henderson doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Franklin's moves.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Saitama Super Arena (Saitama, Japan) are cheering for the fighters.
Rich Franklin wants this win. He unleashes a kick.
Brutal high kick to Henderson!
Henderson's Right eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
The clock says 4:20 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with Henderson
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rich Franklin continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting his vision.
Franklin and Dan Henderson are cliched up against the cage. Franklin steps for a throw
Dan Henderson is gets thrown to the mat but gets right back up
The fighters are clinching.
Henderson takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
The two exchange wildly
Both fighters are missing terribly.
Josh Rosenthal tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
That was an even round for the most part.
Winner is Rich Franklin by Unanimous decision
Statistics: Dan Henderson
Punches 11/29 (38%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/5 (0%)
Takedowns 3/3 (100%)
GnP strikes 24/38 (63%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 932 s
Statistics: Rich Franklin
Punches 15/25 (60%)
Kicks 3/4 (75%)
Clinch strikes 1/9 (11%)
Takedowns 5/7 (71%)
GnP strikes 44/78 (56%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 4/4 (100%)
Time on the ground 965 s
This was a great fight. Lots of back and forth action, but not just that. The back and forth action was unpredictable. Sometimes someone would dish out massive damage over a short burst (Franklins first big onslaught hurt Dan for a long time). Othertimes, there were longer periods of small consistent damage (Dan, round 3 I think it was). Both fighters closed the fight with nearly the same amount of remaining health, so this would have been a great one to see go more rounds. In the end, the decision is probably the correct one, as Franklin had more time in charge, and did the most damaging attacks.