Benson Henderson and Michael Chandler will rematch in the co-main event of Bellator Japan. The 160lbs contest is set for the Saitama Super Arena on December 29th.
Chandler (19-5) and Henderson (28-8) first met in 2016 on a Bellator card. The former won that bout by split decision after a five round war but the latter is riding a four fight winning streak heading into this contest.
Henderson is a former UFC and WEC lightweight champion. He has challenged unsuccessfully for Bellator belts in both the 155lbs and 170lbs divisions and a win in Tokyo would leave him on the cusp of a third title shot.
Chandler is a three time Bellator lightweight champion. He lost his title after being stopped by Patricio Freire in May but has been one of the division’s top fighters ever since winning the 155lbs tournament in 2011.
Bellator Japan will be headlined by a heavyweight fight between Fedor Emelianenko and Quinton Jackson, two fighters who made their name competing in the country during the Pride era.
It will be Bellator’s first event in Asia and will take place two days before the Rizin card in the same venue on New Year’s Eve.
Bellator Japan, Tokyo, December 29th
Fedor Emelianenko vs. Quinton Jackson (Heavyweight)
Benson Henderson vs. Michael Chandler (Catchweight)
