Bellator has booked it’s co-main event for next weekend’s card. First reported by MMA Fighting and confirmed from promotion officials, Benson Henderson (28-9) will be returning to the welterweight division to take on Jason Jackson (12-4).
The fight being booked for 11/19 could be a reason for Henderson returning to the welterweight division. It is not known yet if the move is a permanent one for the former UFC lightweight champion.
Henderson is looking to bounce back after his last performance. Henderson last fought in August where he took on Michael Chandler. Entering that fight, Henderson had won four fights in a row. Many believed if he won, he would be getting a lightweight title shot.
However, Chandler went on to knock Henderson out in the first round. It was a big setback for the former world champion. Chandler went on to sign with the UFC while Henderson is looking to regroup in Bellator. That regrouping starts next weekend at Bellator 253.
Bellator 253
This fight is a golden opportunity for Jason Jackson. Jackson first came onto the public scene when he appeared on Dana White’s Contender Series. That night, Jackson lost, but since, he’s been fighting between Bellator and LFA.
In his last six fights, Jackson has only lost once. That loss was a split decision loss to Ed Ruth inside the Bellator cage. Many believe that Jackson actually won that fight. This is the biggest opponent from a name perspective that Jackson has fought in his career.
If Jackson is able to pickup the victory at Bellator 253, he could be inching closer to a welterweight title shot. He will likely need another victory or two after Bellator 253, but there will be no questioning the contender status of Jason Jackson if he’s able to get the victory.
Both of these men have a lot to gain next weekend. For Henderson, he has the opportunity to right the ship and get back on track after that tough loss. For Jackson, he has the chance to pickup the biggest victory of his career.