The main event of UFC 161: "Evans vs. Henderson" tonight (Sat., June 15, 2013) at the MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, featured Rashad Evans and Dan Henderson squaring off in a battle to remain relevant in the light heavyweight division. Both have had prior chances at the gold in their respective weight class and a loss here would likely mean never challenging for said championship ever again.
Round one opened with Rashad taking the center of the cage but staying at distance. The first exchange took place with Evans jumping inside and looking for uppercuts. They broke clean and came out to reset in the middle.
"Suga" attempted to use a combination to duck under for a takedown but they were too close to the fence and he was forced to back out. "Hendo" tried to use the moment to load up that big right hand and fire but Evans was watching for it and defended well.
One hand out and circling away.
Henderson continued looking for an opening to land his trademark punch while Rashad made sure to stay as far away from it as possible. The shot that ended up hurting Evans was a stiff jab, though, and Henderson earned a knockdown on a follow up right hand, though it wasn't the "H-Bomb" we've come to know and love.
The round closed with both fighters staying back.
For complete "Evans vs. Henderson" results and coverage click here, and for complete UFC 161 results and blow-by-blow coverage of all the night's action click here.